President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for recovering over ₦500 billion and securing more than 7,000 convictions since the beginning of his administration.
The President gave the commendation during his keynote address at the 7th EFCC–NJI Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges, held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja. The event, themed “Enhancing Justice in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes,” brought together key stakeholders in the justice and anti-corruption sectors.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and institutional independence for anti-graft agencies.
“We have prioritized public accountability by strengthening anti-corruption institutions and granting them the independence required to carry out their mandates. The EFCC’s achievements over the last two years, over 7,000 convictions and asset recoveries exceeding ₦500 billionn demonstrate this progress,” Tinubu said.
He noted that proceeds of recovered funds had been reinvested into critical social programmes, including the Students’ Loan and Consumer Credit schemes, to stimulate economic growth and promote equity.
Judicial Role in Anti-Corruption Efforts
The President underscored the judiciary’s vital role in sustaining the fight against corruption, urging judges to uphold justice without fear or favor.
“A Nigeria free of corruption is possible if we all remain committed to integrity in our respective roles. A strong and independent judiciary is the bedrock of any successful anti-corruption framework,” he stated.
Tinubu also warned that no individual or institution is above scrutiny, stressing that collective responsibility is key to national progress and security.
EFCC Chairman Commends Judiciary, Highlights Challenges
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede expressed appreciation for the judiciary’s support, describing it as the “cornerstone” of the anti-corruption drive. He, however, lamented the slow judicial processes that often delay the resolution of high-profile corruption cases.
Olukoyede reiterated the Commission’s resolve to improve efficiency, professionalism, and public engagement to sustain momentum in the anti-graft fight.
Performance Report Highlights
According to the EFCC’s latest performance report, the agency recovered ₦364.5 billion, $326.5 million, and other foreign assets in 2024 alone, securing 4,111 convictions in various courts across the country.
The report also revealed that the Commission received 15,724 petitions, investigated 12,928, and filed 5,081 cases in court, a 48% increase in filings and a 53% rise in convictions compared to 2023.
Significant asset recoveries during the year included over 750 duplexes and apartments, numerous land parcels, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency wallets, and other valuable properties.
Olukoyede affirmed that the EFCC aims to surpass its 2024 recovery figures by reinforcing internal accountability and operational transparency.
