EFCC Chairman Olukoyede honoured with award for courage in justice and transparency

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has once again been recognized for his unwavering dedication to transparency, justice, and the fight against corruption, as he was conferred with the prestigious “Courage in Justice and Transparency” award by the Nigerian Human Rights Community.

The award ceremony took place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Airport Hotel in Lagos, drawing a distinguished audience that included senior public officials, civil society leaders, and key stakeholders in governance and justice sectors.

Representing Olukoyede at the event was the Chief of Staff to the Commission, Commander of the EFCC, CE Michael Nzekwe. In his remarks, Nzekwe underscored the collective responsibility of all Nigerians in confronting corruption, stating, “We owe this obligation to our nation and to future generations. Fighting corruption truly requires courage and transparency.”

Olukoyede, in his message, described the honour as both humbling and inspiring. He emphasized that battling corruption demands an unyielding spirit and resilience.

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“Corruption is a monstrous mountain, and you need courage to break it into pieces. The most difficult thing to say is NO in the face of threats and challenges,” he noted.

Highlighting the need for greater transparency, especially among EFCC operatives and within the broader justice system, Olukoyede reinforced the principle that “he that comes to equity must come with clean hands.”

He dedicated the award to the hardworking staff of the EFCC, acknowledging their sacrifices and commitment to the anti-corruption crusade.

He also extended his appreciation to the Nigerian Human Rights Community and the Green Peoples Environmental Network for recognizing the Commission’s efforts. “This award will surely encourage us to do more,” he affirmed.

Olukoyede further called on civil society organizations and advocacy groups to strengthen their roles in promoting justice, accountability, and good governance. “We need to build formidable synergy against corruption.

Every little success in breaking the hard nut of corruption is significant, and if we remain consistent, we will eventually succeed in bringing down the rocky tower of graft in our land,” he charged.

Reaffirming the EFCC’s unwavering commitment to its mandate, he stated that recognitions such as the Courage in Justice and Transparency award would continue to serve as motivation for the Commission to intensify its anti-corruption efforts nationwide.

The event concluded with renewed calls for deeper collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and the general public to sustain the momentum in Nigeria’s war against corruption.