October 10, (THEWILL) — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has expressed its readiness to deepen collaboration with the media and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the fight against economic and financial crimes, including cryptocurrency fraud and other forms of cybercrime.
The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation workshop for CSOs and media professionals held at the Commission’s Kano Zonal Directorate on Thursday.
Represented by the Acting Zonal Director, Sa’ad Hanafi, Olukoyede said the initiative was part of efforts to strengthen partnerships in the collective battle against corruption and financial misconduct.
He said, “Our fight against corruption is not a solo mission; it is a collective national endeavour that requires synergy, trust, and shared intelligence.
“The aim of this workshop is to build and deepen a stronger, more collaborative relationship between the EFCC and your esteemed organisations.”
Olukoyede noted that the inclusion of journalists and CSOs was both strategic and deliberate, describing them as “critical drivers of change.”
“CSOs serve as the conscience of society and a vital bridge between the government and the citizenry. Journalists, on the other hand, wield the powerful pen that shapes public opinion, holds power accountable, and illuminates the dark corners where corruption thrives.
“Together, you are indispensable allies in safeguarding our economy and collective future,” he added.
He explained that the workshop was designed to educate participants on understanding cryptocurrency-related fraud and other emerging cyber-enabled financial crimes, as well as to provide guidance on the challenges of investigating and prosecuting such offences.
According to him, the world is witnessing a shift from traditional fraud schemes to more sophisticated, technology-driven crimes, hence the need to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to identify and address these threats.
“The workshop will go a long way in fostering a strategic partnership between the EFCC, CSOs, and the media in promoting a preventive and citizen-driven approach to combating corruption,” he said.
The event was attended by members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, and representatives of various CSOs operating in the state.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
