Olukoyede Urges Youths to Channel Creative Energy into Productive Ventures

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youths to steer clear of fraudulent activities, particularly internet fraud and channel their creativity into productive and legitimate ventures.

Olukoyede made this call on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the inauguration ceremony of  Zero Tolerance Club at Citi Polytechnic, Dawaki, Abuja. Represented by the Head of Creative Communication Unit of the Commission,  Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACEI Christian Oluka, the Chairman emphasized the importance of integrity and hard work in nation-building.

Specifically, he encouraged students to harness their digital skills for productive purposes, citing global tech entrepreneurs such as Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk as examples of individuals who leveraged their creativity for positive impact.

 "Your creativity counts.  I charge you to always seek ways and means to deploy your energy into productive engagements.  Also, youths should use their talents for legitimate earnings rather than engaging in cybercrime. Even religious scriptures, both the Bible and Quran frown at fraud and dishonesty. Crime does not pay, and that is why we are here today to guide and nurture you into becoming responsible citizens and future leaders Nigeria can be proud of," he said.

He reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to instilling values of integrity among students through the Zero Tolerance Club. “The objectives of this club include promoting honesty, exposing fraudulent acts, fostering openness, discouraging deceit and greed, and ensuring adherence to school regulations. We encourage you to partner with the EFCC in our mission to rid the country of economic and financial crimes,” he said.

He cautioned against the allure of quick wealth through fraudulent means, emphasizing that all crimes, irrespective of their scale, have consequences. “There is no lesser crime; crime is crime. Discard the mentality of ‘get-rich-quick’ syndrome and focus on legitimate ways to make a living and elevate Nigeria’s reputation globally.”

Also speaking at the event, the Head of Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit of the EFCC, ACEII Aisha Mohammed, explained the rationale behind establishing Zero Tolerance Clubs in tertiary institutions.

“We believe that youths are the future of this country, and the EFCC will do everything possible to secure your future from the dangers of cybercrime by raising awareness of its ills and encouraging legitimate earnings,” she said.

She urged students to serve as ambassadors of the EFCC by spreading awareness about the dangers of cybercrime, corruption, and other financial crimes.

“The EFCC values your voices. You matter, and your role in this fight is crucial. Spread the message to your peers and the larger society. Those who claim that the EFCC is targeting ‘yahoo boys’ should consider the plight of their victims. Only when you put yourself in the victim’s shoes can you understand the devastating impact of these crimes,” she said.

 In his remarks, the Rector of Citi Polytechnic, Chief Barima Wate, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for engaging with the students and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to promoting integrity among its students.

“We appreciate the EFCC for reaching out to our students. The purpose of today’s event is not just for the EFCC or for us as school administrators, but for you, the students. We want to ensure that you stay away from crime and build a better future for yourselves," he said.

The event culminated in the official inauguration of the Zero Tolerance Club executives, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the institution’s fight against corruption and financial crimes.