Tinubu applauds EFCC for recovering ₦500bn and securing 7,000 convictions, calling it proof of strengthened accountability and institutional independence

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for recovering over ₦500 billion and securing more than 7,000 convictions within the first two years of his administration.

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Speaking at the 7th EFCC–NJI Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges on Monday in Abuja, Tinubu — represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima — described the EFCC’s achievements under Ola Olukoyede as “a testament to strengthened accountability and renewed institutional independence.”

“As an administration, we have prioritised public accountability by strengthening anti-corruption agencies and granting them the independence to execute their statutory mandates,” the President stated.

He noted that proceeds from recovered assets have been channelled into key social initiatives, including the Students Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Initiative, reinforcing the government’s commitment to transparency and reinvestment.

Tinubu urged members of the judiciary to remain steadfast in supporting anti-corruption efforts, stressing that justice is the backbone of accountability.

“A Nigeria free of corruption is possible if we all commit to doing what is right and ensuring that those who deviate from the norm are not allowed to go scot-free,” he added.

Meanwhile, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede highlighted the Commission’s milestones but lamented persistent judicial bottlenecks hampering high-profile corruption trials.

“Some cases filed by the Commission 15 or 20 years ago appear in limbo. The longer cases last in court, the more the image of the court as the temple of justice is eroded,” Olukoyede said, warning against the “weaponisation of procedure.”

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, noted that corruption undermines development, stating that judicial integrity is central to restoring public trust.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), also called for closer cooperation between investigators, prosecutors, and judges to ensure swift and effective justice.

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The workshop, themed “Enhancing Justice in the Fight against Economic and Financial Crimes,” runs until Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.