Direct Your Creative Energies to Nation Building, Olukoyode Charges Youths

Abuja, October 8, 2025

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyode, has urged Nigerian youths to reject internet fraud and channel their creativity towards nation building.

He delivered the message on Wednesday at the pioneer Kids and Teens STEAM Innovate Buildathon bootcamp, held for young people aged between seven and eighteen. The event, themed “Future Innovator: Young Minds, Big Ideas, Creating Tomorrow Today,” aims to inspire and nurture innovation among the younger generation.

In a keynote address delivered by the Acting Director of the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate, Assistant Commander ACE1 Bawa Usman Kaltungo, Olukoyode encouraged youths to embrace positive ventures and avoid economic and financial crimes, especially internet fraud. He praised their innovative spirit, talents, and skills, urging them to direct these gifts towards supporting government efforts rather than engaging in activities that could jeopardize their futures and the country’s progress.

“A lot of negativity is going on among the youth but I urge you not to go with the tide. Desist from joining the bandwagon of internet fraud as there will be regrets in future. Your importance in our society cannot be taken lightly. Galvanise your thoughts in such a way that you can stand nationally or internationally when the opportunity presents itself. Your era is very different from ours,” Olukoyode stated.
The event highlights EFCC’s commitment to empowering the youth through education and innovation, steering them away from criminal activities and towards meaningful contributions to national development.