The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, urged the nation’s youths to support the anti-corruption drives of the federal government.

Mr Olukoyede said this on Thursday at the 2024 Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS) National Conference in Abuja.

He said youths were critical stakeholders in the fight against graft in the nation.

Mr Olukoyede, represented by the EFCC’s head of publicity and enlightenment, Aisha Mohammed, expressed optimism about youths’ potential to drive significant societal change.

“As we stand here, corruption continues to undermine our society, economy and democracy. But amidst this challenge, I see hope.

“I see a generation of young people who are determined, passionate, and committed to creating a better future,” he said.

Mr Olukoyede said there had been deliberate use of public resources for private gains, which has led to stunted national progress.

The EFCC Boss proposed a comprehensive strategy to empower youth to become more involved in the fight against sleaze.

According to him, this should include educating young people about the forms and impact of corruption and encouraging them to take on leadership roles in anti-corruption efforts.

“Youth-led initiatives and organisations will receive support, promoting active community engagement and participation in local governance,” he said.

Mr Olukoyede believes it is crucial to establish safe and confidential channels for reporting corruption and provide internships and job opportunities in anti-corruption organisations and government agencies.

He affirmed that youth-led campaigns and awareness programmes would target corruption, while policy involvement would encourage youth to participate in policy-making and advocacy.

The EFCC boss then called for collective efforts to build a corruption-free Nigeria, emphasising the importance of harnessing youths’ energy, creativity, and idealism for this cause.

“By supporting and enabling youth, we can create a corruption-free world,” he said.

(NAN)