The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian youths to steer clear of social vices and corrupt practices, emphasising that their integrity is vital to their future leadership roles.
Speaking on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate, Olukoyede warned that the temporary allure of illicit gains is a trap.
“The cost of corruption outweighs the apparent benefits derivable from social vices,” Olukoyede stated. “The nation is relying on you to drive more positive changes through attitudinal redirection.”
The EFCC boss, represented by the Acting Zonal Director, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE1) Hassan Saidu, addressed a visiting delegation from the Youth Anti-Corruption Society.
He urged the young activists to act as “good ambassadors and foot soldiers” in the ongoing battle against internet fraud and cybercrime.
Olukoyede highlighted the Commission’s strategic focus on the younger demographic, noting that the country’s survival depends on plugging systemic leakages today.
“To make the society a better place for our survival, we must prevent the leakages in our environment,” he said. “The youths are the movers of the nation. That’s why the Commission is trying its best to catch up with youths, as you are the leaders of tomorrow.”
The delegation’s leader, Comrade Sampson Abibo, explained that the visit was intended to strengthen the existing partnership between his organisation and the anti-graft agency. Abibo revealed that the society has been active in Rivers State for five years, specifically targeting younger children to nip corruption in the bud through the “Student Anti-Corruption Initiative of Nigeria.”
This initiative serves as a primary campaign against social vices, drug abuse, and theft within both secondary and primary schools. Abibo further pledged the organisation’s readiness to assist the EFCC in tackling internet fraud, cyber-bullying, hacking, and other unhealthy behaviours that negatively affect society.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the youth, stating that the government is dedicated to creating an environment where young people can thrive without resorting to crime.
