President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on all Nigerians to join forces in the fight against corruption, emphasizing that no single individual or agency can tackle this menace alone.
Speaking at the opening of a Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges in Abuja, organized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Judicial Institute, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to “close ranks and aggressively tackle this common enemy”.
He praised the initiative, saying it provides a platform for collective action against corruption, which he described as a cancer denying Nigeria the full benefits of its resources.
Tinubu acknowledged the judiciary’s crucial role in anti-corruption efforts, highlighting the need for commitment, courage, and patriotism from judicial officers.
However, he also noted challenges impeding the judiciary’s work, including frivolous applications, intimidation of judges, and judgments based on technicalities rather than facts.
He expressed hope that the workshop would address these issues and improve capacity in dealing with emerging financial crimes, such as cryptocurrency fraud.
The President highlighted his administration’s efforts to utilize recovered proceeds of corruption to support students and vulnerable citizens through initiatives like the Students Loan Fund and Consumer Credit Scheme.
These programs aim to reduce the pressure on vulnerable populations to engage in corrupt practices.
Finally, he commended the EFCC’s commitment to fighting economic and financial crimes, pledging continued support to ensure the Commission delivers its mandate without hindrance.