The Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, on Thursday in Abuja urged the nation’s youths to support anti-corruption drives of the Federal Government.
He said this at the 2024 Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS) National Conference in Abuja on Thursday.
He said youths were critical stakeholders in the fight against graft in the nation.
Olukoyede was represented by the Head of Publicity and Enlightenment, EFCC, Ms Aisha Mohammed, expressed optimism about the potential of youths to drive significant change in the society.
“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.
Olukoyede said there had been deliberate use of public resources for private gains which, according to him 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.
This according to him this should include educating and raising awareness among young people about the forms and impact of corruption, 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.
According to him, establishing safe and confidential channels for reporting corruption is crucial, along with providing 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 also encourage youth to participate in policy-making and advocacy.
He then called for collective efforts to build a corruption-free Nigeria, emphasising the importance of harness youths energy, creativity and idealism for this cause.
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“By supporting and enabling youth, we can create a corruption-free world,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference had as its` theme: Promotion of Peaceful Coexistence, Ethnic and Religious Cohesion in our Nation.
It brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organisations, and young leaders to brainstorm on the fight against fraud. (NAN)
