The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Saturday reassured its commitment to the fight against financial crimes and other related offences.

Its chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stated this at the annual celebration of the International Anti-Corruption Day in Ilorin.

Mr Olukoyede, represented by the Ilorin zonal commander, Michael Nzekwe, said corruption threatened the growth and development of individuals and nations worldwide.

He said the commission would prioritise corruption prevention through collaboration and synergy with local and foreign law enforcement agencies.

The chairman said no one was immune to the contagion of corruption, adding that “that’s why nations are united in finding solutions to the common ailment.”

The 2023 International Anti-Corruption Day theme is “UNCAC@20: Uniting the World Against Corruption”.

Mr Olukoyede described the theme as a tribute to the revolutionary impact which the organ of the United Nations had in mobilising and directing global action against corruption.

The EFCC boss stated that the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) had become the fulcrum of global resistance against corruption through its resolutions and interventions.

“The world truly owes this organ a debt of commendation, and to show appreciation, we are rededicating and recommitting ourselves to the implementation of all the recommendations of this anti-corruption organ.

“At the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, it is a special occasion, as it offers us an opportunity to review our work, engage with stakeholders and consider fresh perspectives.

“This is to consolidate the gains of the fight against economic and financial crimes, as well as other forms of corrupt practices,” he said. 

Earlier, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara, represented by Yinusa Lade, the state Commissioner for Youth, commended EFCC and other security agencies for fighting corruption and maintaining security.

The governor urged the youth to shun cybercrime and be more useful for themselves and their community. 

He stressed that the present administration had started working hard to engage youth in meaningful and payable business.

(NAN)