The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called for deeper collaboration with civil society organisations (CSOs) and the media in the fight against corruption, describing both groups as “critical drivers of national change.”

Acting zonal director of the EFCC, Kaduna zonal directorate, Bawa Kaltungo, made the call on Thursday in Kaduna at a one-day sensitisation workshop for journalists and CSOs.

Mr Kaltungo, who spoke on behalf of the EFCC chairman, Ola Olukoyede, said the workshop was organised to strengthen cooperation between the commission and key stakeholders whose roles remain vital to public accountability and national integrity.

According to him, CSOs serve as the conscience of society and a bridge between citizens and government, while journalists use the “powerful pen” to shape public opinion and expose wrongdoing.

“Together, you are indispensable allies in safeguarding our economy and our collective future,” he said.

Mr Kaltungo stated that the EFCC had benefited significantly from intelligence and information shared by CSOs and the media, which had helped expose suspicious financial transactions, abuses of office, and systemic fraud.

“Our fight against corruption is not a solo mission. It requires synergy, trust, and shared intelligence,” he said, urging the participants to use the workshop as a platform for open dialogue and strengthened collaboration.

Mr Kaltungo commended the EFCC public affairs department for organising the programme and formally declared the workshop open.

Earlier, the head of public affairs at the EFCC Kaduna Zonal Directorate, Zainab Ahmed, said the workshop was designed to deepen understanding of the legal and practical processes involved in prosecuting financial crimes, emerging threats in the digital space, and the preventive responsibilities of non-state actors.

“Our goal is to ensure all participants leave better informed, better connected, and better equipped to play their respective roles,” she said.

A presentation by the head of legal and prosecution, Nasiru Salele, took participants through key issues in financial crime prosecution, including levels of involvement, evidence assessment, and investigation procedures.

Mr Salele identified challenges affecting prosecution, such as uncooperative judges and frequent transfers of Federal High Court judges.

He also highlighted advancements in EFCC investigations, including the use of AI tools and strengthened international cooperation.

Another session, led by Ayukor Ovirororo of the procurement fraud section, focused on cryptocurrency-related crime. He explained how criminals store, move, and launder crypto assets through centralised and decentralised exchanges.

Mr Ovirororo warned that while cryptocurrency offers economic opportunities, it also poses national financial risks, citing recent high-profile cases in which unregulated digital operations escalated into major threats.

The final session, presented by Tony Orilade, head of public interface at the EFCC headquarters, centred on the preventive roles of CSOs and the media.

He emphasised the impact of investigative journalism, policy advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and monitoring of government activities.

Mr Orilade added that CSOs also provide safe platforms for whistle-blowers and play a significant role in shaping stronger anti-corruption frameworks.

(NAN)