Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has emphasized the importance of utilizing the creative abilities of youths to foster economic growth and development in Nigeria. In his address to corps members of Batch C, Stream One at the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Iyana Ipaja, Lagos on November 16, 2023, Olukoyede urged young individuals to redirect their focus inward and generate innovative ideas and perspectives that can contribute to the nation’s economy.
Olukoyede stressed that by actively participating in the fight against corruption, the economy will experience significant growth. This, in turn, will enhance investor confidence, eliminate disruptions in the productive processes, increase competition for industrial engagements, and maximize the creative energies of youths.
While cautioning against the desperate pursuit of material wealth, Olukoyede warned that such behavior could exacerbate the issue of corruption. Instead, he encouraged young individuals to engage in socially-beneficial activities such as becoming community advocates, resisting forces against corruption, change agents, active foot soldiers against corruption, and whistleblowers or intelligence-gatherers.
In various locations across the country, Olukoyede reiterated the need to strengthen the whistle-blower initiative for a more vibrant economic growth and successful anti-corruption campaign. He emphasized that whistle blowing should become a mass commitment and crusade to effectively employ the anti-corruption fight in promoting economic growth.
Furthermore, Olukoyede highlighted the shared responsibility of both the elites and youths in perpetuating corruption in the country. He urged concerted efforts to mobilize these groups and engage them in the anti-corruption war.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Olukoyede cautioned youths to avoid any actions that compromise their integrity, emphasizing that those who opt for shortcuts are often left empty-handed. He presented the challenges of embracing new orientations to youths in other locations, such as Kaduna, Makurdi, Uyo, Keffi, Ilorin, Maiduguri, and Benin-City, asserting that corruption can be replaced with positive self-drives, commitment to enterprise and entrepreneurship, creativity, and development-focused thinking.
