Olukoyede Urges Integrity as 404 EFCC Cadets Graduate in Nasarawa

On Friday, September 26, 2025, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), addressed 404 newly trained cadets at their Passing Out Parade held at the Nigeria Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hills, Akwanga, Nasarawa State. He called on them to let integrity, discipline, and accountability guide their work as they begin their service to the nation.

The graduating officers consist of 294 Detective Superintendents and 110 Detective Inspectors. Mr. Olukoyede said their roles come with heavy responsibilities that demand honesty, courage, and personal discipline. He reminded them that their training gave them a strong foundation in law enforcement and organisational discipline, stressing that the EFCC has zero tolerance for corruption and compromise.

He said integrity must be seen as more than just a slogan. According to him, “You must fit adequately into the mould of officers that are well-rewarded and morally upright. Integrity, for us, is not a slogan, it is a rule of engagement and an article of faith in the work we do. It is often said that he that comes to equity must come with clean hands. Nothing can be truer than this. You cannot offer the nation what you don’t have. Anti-corruption officers must be above board at all times.”

Mr. Olukoyede warned the cadets that corruption among EFCC officers attracts stiff punishment. “Sanctions and punitive measures against corrupt practices by officers of the Commission are stiff. I wouldn’t want such for any of you,” he said. He urged them to be professional and diligent at all times.

The EFCC Chairman also explained that the Commission invests heavily in training its operatives so that they can compete with their global counterparts. He said officers are moulded to be intellectually sound, physically fit, courageous, and accountable, which equips them to function as international law enforcement agents.

He encouraged the cadets to build on the EFCC’s reputation by working hard, surpassing existing records, and contributing to breaking what he described as the “siege of graft” in Nigeria. He said defeating corruption requires not only EFCC officers but also the passion, energy, and commitment of every patriotic Nigerian. He added that the Commission has shown capacity to tackle any financial crime, thanks to its effective manpower for investigations and prosecutions.

The Reviewing Officer at the event, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, congratulated the cadets for showing resilience and determination during their training. He said their performance gives hope for a brighter future for Nigeria. The Governor also called on the National Assembly to create a special anti-corruption court during the ongoing constitutional review to handle such cases more effectively.

Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, and Honourable Ginger Onwusibe, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes, also offered congratulatory messages and advice. They reminded the cadets that public trust carries high expectations, and that their actions must reflect the values of honesty and accountability.

Some cadets received special recognition for their outstanding performance during training. Amagiya Efe Princewill was named Overall Best Cadet in the Superintendent category, while Sanni Ayoola Blessing earned the award as Overall Best Cadet in the Inspector cadre.

The Passing Out Parade marks an important moment in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. Crimes like embezzlement, fraud, money laundering, and abuse of public funds remain serious threats to the nation’s stability and growth. With the new officers joining the Commission, the EFCC is expected to further strengthen its capacity to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.

By stressing values such as discipline, integrity, and accountability, Mr. Olukoyede made it clear that the EFCC is not only focused on catching offenders but also committed to ensuring its operatives remain above suspicion. The credibility of the Commission depends greatly on the character of its officers, and Nigerians will be watching closely as the new cadets begin their service.

As they step into their new roles, the 404 cadets carry the weight of public expectation. Their success will depend not only on their skills but on how well they embody the values of honesty, courage, and professionalism in their daily work. If they remain true to the ideals emphasized during their training, they can help strengthen the EFCC and contribute to restoring confidence in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.