The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has ramped up its monitoring of funds allocated to local governments across Nigeria, in a bold move to curb financial mismanagement and ensure grassroots development. This revelation came from EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, during a courtesy visit by leaders of the National Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP), led by Isaac Abrak, at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday.
Responding to calls for stricter financial oversight following the recent granting of autonomy to local governments, Olukoyede assured the delegation that the EFCC had already taken proactive steps.
“We have a department called Fraud Risk Assessment and Control that is closely monitoring and tracking payments, contracts, and other releases to ensure that funds are expended on what they are meant for,” he stated.
The EFCC boss further urged NCYP members to leverage their platforms in promoting integrity, unity, and good governance.
“Doing the right thing has nothing to do with whether you are a Christian or a Muslim. Let’s continue to operate as people of integrity irrespective of our faith,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the NCYP, Abrak highlighted the dire state of development at the grassroots level, noting that only proper management of local government funds could drive sustainable growth, alleviate poverty, and improve living conditions.
“We come from the grassroots, and we understand the realities in our local government areas. We appreciate the President for granting local government autonomy. If local governments can achieve even 40% of their responsibilities, we will see significant progress. That’s why we are here—to call for proper monitoring of resource management and to offer our partnership to ensure that funds meant for the grassroots are effectively utilized,” he stated.
The youth leader also commended Olukoyede for his leadership, emphasizing that his performance reflects the values of integrity and transparency.
“We are proud of you. You have represented our faith with excellence,” Abrak noted.
Abrak also raised alarm over the increasing involvement of Northern youths in cybercrime, a trend that was previously more prevalent in the southern parts of the country.
“Cybercrime is spreading into the North, and we want the EFCC to intensify its operations in this region,” he urged.
He further applauded the professionalism and dedication of EFCC officers, particularly in securing Nigeria’s victory in the high-profile P&ID case in 2023, and expressed confidence in Olukoyede’s continued success in the fight against corruption.
As the EFCC tightens its grip on financial misconduct at the local government level, Nigerians will be watching to see if this renewed effort translates into tangible development at the grassroots.
PIONEER NEWS 