From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has intensified its grassroots anti-corruption drive in Kwara State, urging members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), to take the lead in promoting integrity and accountability in their host communities.
The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Commission delivered the charge during a sensitisation programme held for members of the NYSC/EFCC Community Development Service (CDS) Anti-Corruption Group, at the Conference Hall of the Kwara State Ministry of Environment, Ilorin.
The session brought together over 100 corps members from the 2025 Batch B and C, as well as the 2026 Batch A streams.
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Speaking at the event, the Head of Public Affairs of the Directorate, Babatunde Ayodele, described young people as indispensable partners in the anti-graft campaign, stressing that the success of the EFCC’s mandate depends largely on the values embraced by the youth.
Ayodele, an Assistant Commander of the EFCC, said the Commission’s responsibility to prevent and prosecute economic and financial crimes, including the recovery of stolen assets, cannot be achieved solely through enforcement actions.
“The EFCC is not only about arrests and prosecutions. We are also deeply committed to prevention, and that is why this conversation with you is very important. The fight against corruption cannot be won in courtrooms alone — it must first be won in the hearts and decisions of young people like you,” he said.
He explained that the initiative aligns with the vision of the EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, who has consistently advocated a preventive and value-driven approach to tackling corruption.
Ayodele urged the corps members to serve as integrity ambassadors at their Places of Primary Assignment (PPAs) and within their host communities. He encouraged them to organise awareness campaigns in schools, markets and religious centres, while also using creative platforms such as drama, debates and town hall meetings to educate the public on the dangers of cyber fraud, identity theft, money laundering and other financial crimes.
He cautioned against the growing trend of internet fraud and warned corps members about the legal implications of cyber-related offences, including the risks of acting as financial “mules.” He also emphasised the importance of whistleblowing, assuring participants that proper reporting channels through the EFCC remain vital tools in safeguarding communities and strengthening the rule of law.
Reminding the corps members that national service goes beyond routine clearance and postings, Ayodele said impact and character should define their service year. “Your certificate will open doors, but your character will keep those doors open,” he stated, urging them to reject shortcuts and contribute meaningfully to national development.
In her remarks, the NYSC CDS Supervisor, Mrs. Abosede Gbolahan, commended the EFCC for sustaining engagement with young Nigerians. She noted that the preventive approach adopted by the Commission aligns with efforts to nurture a generation that rejects corruption.
Gbolahan described the session as enlightening and motivating, reaffirming the commitment of corps members to uphold ethical standards and actively support anti-corruption advocacy throughout their service year.
