The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to use advanced technology to fight corruption and financial crimes more effectively. EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, announced this initiative during the launch of an electronic learning management studio at the EFCC Academy in Abuja.
Olukoyede highlighted that the new studio would enhance the skills and knowledge of the commission’s staff by promoting distance learning and boosting intellectual capacity. He emphasized the importance of technology in tackling corruption, noting that it would increase staff productivity and build capacity.
“Our operations are now technology-driven,” Olukoyede said. “In the past, money transactions were mostly physical—people would go to the bank, fill out vouchers, collect cash, and drive it home. But today, with just a press of a button, money can be moved across the globe. As criminals have advanced in how they transfer money, we are also advancing in how we track and stop them. This is the purpose of this project.”
Mrs. Chinwe Ndubeze, Commandant of the EFCC Academy, explained that the academy is responsible for training not only EFCC staff but also employees from other law enforcement agencies. She also mentioned that the academy is the official training center for the Network of National Anti-Corruption Institutions of West Africa (NACIWA).
“The EFCC Academy is proud to be the designated training center for NACIWA. Launching our new E-Learning system shows that we, along with NACIWA, are keeping up with the digital age and not falling behind,” she said. “Education must go digital, and we are embracing this change.”
Ndubeze expressed her satisfaction with the academy’s progress in education and training, moving from traditional methods to more innovative approaches. “We are excited to shift our training from the mundane and regular to the innovative. E-Learning is more inclusive and adaptable to the needs of our staff,” she added.
Aliyu Wali, Head of the External Cooperation Unit at the EFCC, also spoke about the potential of the new studio. He said it would provide numerous opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation not just for EFCC officers but also for Nigerians, other law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders.
“With the launch of this E-learning studio and platform, we are opening doors to endless possibilities for growth and learning,” Wali stated. “This platform will play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of our officers and staff, giving them the tools they need to perform their duties with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives from various organizations, including the Network of National Anti-Corruption Institutions of West Africa (NACIWA), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), MacArthur Foundation, ECOWAS, and USAID, among others.
By adopting a technology-driven approach, the EFCC aims to stay ahead of criminals who use modern techniques to commit economic and financial crimes. The new initiatives reflect the commission’s commitment to enhancing the skills of its workforce and staying current with technological advancements in the fight against corruption.