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EFCC

Establishment and Mandate

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was established on December 12, 2002, by the Nigerian National Assembly under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, the agency was created in response to growing concerns over corruption, money laundering, advance fee fraud (popularly known as “419”), cybercrime, terrorism financing, and other forms of financial misconduct that threatened Nigeria’s economic stability and international reputation.

Operational activities commenced on April 13, 2003, with Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as the first Executive Chairman.

Organisational Structure

The Commission operates under the EFCC Establishment Act, which empowers it to investigate, prosecute, and prevent economic and financial crimes.

Headquartered in Abuja, the EFCC operates through a network of zonal commands and offices across the country, enabling it to carry out investigations and enforcement activities nationwide.

The commission works closely with local and international partners, including financial institutions, security agencies, anti-corruption bodies, and global organisations dedicated to combating financial crimes.

Recent Developments and Achievements

The EFCC remains a critical institution in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and economic crimes, with a mandate to promote integrity, accountability, and economic justice.

In 2024, the Commission secured over 3,000 convictions, demonstrating a significant improvement in its prosecution success rate.

Additionally, the EFCC has been proactive in addressing internal misconduct, dismissing 27 personnel in early 2025 for fraudulent activities and misconduct.

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