EFCC Expands Anti-Corruption Operations Nationwide with New Offices in Ekiti, Katsina, and Anambra

In a move to strengthen its anti-corruption efforts, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced the launch of new zonal offices in Ekiti, Katsina, and Anambra States. This expansion brings the total number of EFCC’s zonal offices to 17, marking a notable step in increasing the commission’s national reach and accessibility for citizens.

Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC Chairman, underscored the importance of these new locations in reinforcing the commission’s operations across Nigeria. Speaking through EFCC Director of Public Affairs, Commander Wilson Uwujaren, Olukoyede emphasized that this expansion is crucial to intensifying the commission’s mission to combat financial crimes. These newly established offices join existing EFCC branches in key states, including Lagos, Oyo, Edo, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Kaduna, among others.

Olukoyede stated that the EFCC’s broader reach reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to tackling corruption head-on, a mission bolstered by significant achievements over the past year. In addition to expanding its physical presence, the EFCC has implemented a new unit dedicated to addressing visa and immigration fraud, stationed at each zonal office and headquarters. This unit aims to address the growing challenges of immigration-related scams and protect Nigerians from fraudulent schemes targeting travelers and immigrants.

Further strengthening its outreach, the EFCC has introduced Public Complaints Desks in all zonal directorates, designed to facilitate direct reporting of concerns and grievances by citizens. Staffed by specially trained officers, these desks are equipped with dedicated hotlines, enabling prompt responses to public complaints and fostering a more transparent and accessible anti-corruption process.

Adding to its public education efforts, the EFCC in May 2024 launched “EFCC Radio 97.3FM,” Nigeria’s first radio station dedicated exclusively to anti-corruption awareness. Commissioned by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Manga, EFCC Radio serves as a platform to educate the public on the importance of financial integrity and the dangers of corruption, further emphasizing the EFCC’s commitment to a corruption-free Nigeria.