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EFCC Boss to Youths: Let’s Be United against Corruption
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has called upon the youths across the country to close ranks and confront the monster of corruption, noting that while the menace affects all age group, it bites harder against the prospects and possibilities of youths.
Speaking at a town hall meeting organised by the EFCC in commemoration of the 2024 World Anti-Corruption Day, in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, Olukoyede stressed the need for all hands to be on deck to tackle the menace head-on, “particularly among the youths than any other age group in our society”, noting that the scourge of graft limits and vitiates the opportunities of youths for self-actualisation”.
In his message entitled “Uniting the Youths against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”, delivered by the Ilorin Zonal Director of the EFCC, Harry Erin, Olukoyede opined that “corruption makes our youths vulnerable to fraudulent practices”.
He said: “One of the dreadful effects of internet fraud is its bandwagon effects on youths. The allure of easy money is drawing young people into the vortex of criminality. This explains why our institutions of higher learning are struggling to make students stay away from internet fraud. Any young person that is tainted with cybercrime faces a grim future. There is no sustainable success in internet fraud.”
According to him: “Every young person needs an equal opportunity for self-expression. However, this is impossible in societies where favoritism, nepotism, partisan and other extraneous considerations tilt opportunities in favour of some few privileged people. This is not good for the youths and it is for this reason that they need to forge a united front against corruption.”
The EFCC boss believed that the future of this country belonged to the youths, and he, therefore, enjoined them to always say no to the alluring temptations of crime and align themselves with honesty and the Commission’s fight against corruption.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, John Olusola Bayeshea, who is the Guest Speaker at the occasion lamented the endemic level of corruption in the society, saying that “no nation can ever achieve sustainable socio-economic growth with the level of corruption prevalent in this country”.
The learned silk, however, believed that to effectively curb the problem of corruption in this country, a holistic approach must be adopted and the sociological framework within which it thrives must be addressed.
According to him: “Nigeria is a country blessed with human and mineral resources, but unfortunately, these resources have been cornered by a few individuals.” He said the wealth of this nation is only in the hands of about 2,000 people, which, according to him, was the reason the youths were leaving the country in the name of “Jappa” to seek greener pastures abroad.
The Guest Speaker, who also spoke from the perspective of God, said: “People who are corrupt or who engage in corrupt practices have already been cursed by God unless they repent. People in power and the youths should, therefore, imbibe the virtues of hard work and never see corruption as a lucrative, beneficial or rewarding venture in order not to incur the wrath of God.
“Do not take part in the evil delicacies. Stay away from cybercrime and other forms of criminalities that may deliver quick wealth, but with perilous end.”
Also speaking, the Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Ndanusa Usman, noted that the fight against corruption can only be won when all stakeholders, particularly the youths, embrace this important fight. He encouraged the youths to serve as role models by shunning crimes and all acts of corruption.
In his remarks, the President, National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Comrade Issah Abdulghafar, admonished the youths to always remember that they are the leaders of tomorrow and avoid being used to damage the image of the country.
Quoting Shakespeare and Martin Luther king, he said: “If one is not informed, one will be deformed,” while commending the efforts of the EFCC and its initiative aimed at informing and educating the youths, particularly students, by sensitising them on the need to fight this devastating and endemic scourge that has left the country prostrate and underdeveloped.
Others speakers at the event spoke on the need for moral reorientation and support for the efforts of the government through the EFCC to fight corruption.
The programme featured stakeholders across critical sectors including youth organisations, selected heads of government agencies and development partners.
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
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