By Correspondent in Ilorin.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to take the lead in Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive by serving as watchdogs at their places of primary assignment and ambassadors of integrity in their host communities.
Ayodele Babatunde, Head of Public Affairs at the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC,gave the advice during a sensitization session with about 70 corps members under the NYSC/EFCC Community Development Service (CDS) Group on Friday at the Conference Hall of the Kwara State Ministry of Environment, Ilorin.
Babatunde emphasized that the EFCC, under the leadership of Chairman Ola Olukoyede, prioritizes youth engagement as a critical strategy in the fight against corruption.
He noted that young Nigerians possess the energy, influence, and access to platforms required to challenge corrupt practices and promote a culture of accountability.
“Youths are the heartbeat of this nation. If you embrace transparency and accountability now, Nigeria stands a better chance of becoming a corruption-free society. You are not just corps members; you are future leaders, strategically positioned to shape public perception and behaviour through your values and actions,”he said.
Highlighting various forms of corruption,including bribery, abuse of office, cybercrime, and embezzlement,he further urged the corps members to remain vigilant and committed to exposing wrongdoing.
He also encouraged the use of digital tools such as the EFCC Eagle Eye App to report suspicious activities and to raise awareness in their communities.
In response to questions on how to participate actively in the anti-graft campaign, Babatunde pledged the Commission’s continued support through collaborative projects, public outreach, and educational initiatives tailored to youth involvement.
The corps members, in turn, pledged to uphold ethical standards during their service year and to spread anti-corruption messages throughout their communities as part of their civic duty.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
