ABUJA — The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has received the National Honorary Award as Nigeria’s Icon of Anti-Corruption, Financial Integrity, Economic Development, and Youth Empowerment.
The recognition was conferred in Abuja during the National Youth Day event organized by the Patriotic Nigeria Youth Forum (PNYF). Held under the theme “Reimagining the Nigerian Youth: Leadership, Innovation and a Greater Nation,” the gathering brought together key stakeholders to chart a sustainable path for youth involvement in national development.
In his opening remarks, PNYF National Coordinator Comrade Olamide Odumosu emphasized that empowering the nation’s youth requires moving beyond rhetoric to active opportunity creation. He lauded the EFCC Chairman for his visionary leadership, steadfast promotion of integrity, and proactive measures to protect young citizens from criminal entanglement.
Represented at the event by Aisha Mohammed, Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Head of the Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit, Olukoyede delivered a compelling keynote address. He noted that over 70% of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 35, making youth the country’s most potent demographic asset—or a potential liability if misdirected.
Expressing concern over internet-related crimes, Olukoyede revealed that over 75% of internet fraud convictions recorded by the anti-graft agency over the past year involved individuals aged 18 to 35. He cautioned against cybercrimes such as fake investment schemes, sextortion, and romance scams, urging young people to channel their exceptional digital skills into coding, innovation, and legitimate productivity.
Highlighting the commission’s shift toward preventive frameworks, Olukoyede outlined a four-pillar anti-corruption strategy centered on values re-orientation, financial literacy, accountability, and strategic partnerships. He called on young Nigerians to serve as whistleblowers and active partners in security rather than passive spectators.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Minister of Youth Development—represented by Ngozi Icheke Ofurum—reminded citizens that true national progress relies on the collective everyday choices of all 220 million Nigerians. The ministry challenged youths to transcend ethnic divides, leverage their talents for peacebuilding, and seize active roles in steering the nation toward sustainable growth.
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This video provides additional context on youth empowerment and anti-corruption advocacy forums in Abuja.