Vice President Kashim Shettima has lauded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its contribution to improving Nigeria’s investment climate, noting that its anti-corruption and anti-money laundering operations were instrumental in the country’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
He gave the commendation on Tuesday during the commissioning of the EFCC’s new zonal office in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, where he also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening anti-graft institutions.
Shettima said the Commission had become a key pillar in Nigeria’s economic and national security framework through its sustained fight against corruption, financial crimes, cybercrime and illicit financial flows.
According to him, the EFCC’s efforts not only contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the FATF grey list but also boosted investor confidence and improved perceptions of the country’s economic reforms.
“Corruption remains one of the greatest threats to national development and public trust,” the Vice President said, adding that the Tinubu administration considers the anti-corruption drive central to its governance agenda.
He stressed that government would continue to support the Commission through improved infrastructure, better welfare conditions, operational backing and capacity development for personnel.
Shettima also highlighted recent achievements of the agency, including multiple convictions in cybercrime-related cases and the recovery of funds redirected into social investment programmes such as the Student Loan Scheme.
He urged stronger inter-agency collaboration, warning that money laundering networks often fuel insecurity and other forms of organised crime.
In his remarks, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji described the establishment of the zonal office as a significant step toward improving access to justice and strengthening anti-corruption enforcement in Ekiti and neighbouring Ondo State.
He noted that the state government provided support for the project, including a 220KVA generator, to ensure smooth operations.
Oyebanji added that the absence of a nearby EFCC office had previously forced residents, victims, and investigators to travel long distances, making the pursuit of justice more difficult and costly.