The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has inaugurated a zonal office in Awka, Nigeria, as part of its efforts to safeguard the economies of Anambra and Imo states. On October 3, 2026, EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, commissioned the office, emphasizing the need to protect legitimate economic activities in both states from fraud, cybercrime, and money laundering. The new office is expected to bring the agency closer to the people and economic activities it aims to protect.
According to Olukoyede, the establishment of the zonal office in Awka is not just a geographical expansion, but a strategic move to help safeguard the economy of Anambra and Imo states. He charged the governor of Anambra state and the head of the office to develop a cordial working relationship to ensure effective collaboration. The EFCC boss also highlighted the agency's mandate to protect critical infrastructure and promote transparency, accountability, and due process across all sectors of governance.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, urged the governments of Anambra and Imo states to protect the critical infrastructure of the EFCC. He emphasized the need for collective action to restore transparency, accountability, and due process across all sectors of governance. Abass called on Nigerians to take ownership of the crusade against economic and financial crimes, stressing that it requires the active cooperation of every citizen.
Anambra state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, expressed his delight and support for the establishment of the EFCC zonal office in Awka. His Imo state counterpart, Governor Hope Uzodimma, pledged to partner with the commission in the fight against financial crimes. The governors' commitment to collaboration with the EFCC is seen as a significant step towards promoting economic growth and stability in both states.
The EFCC's move to establish a zonal office in Awka is a response to the growing concerns about cyber crimes and economic sabotage in Anambra and Imo states. The agency's efforts to combat these crimes are expected to boost investor confidence and promote economic development in the region. By bringing its services closer to the people, the EFCC aims to enhance its effectiveness in preventing and investigating economic and financial crimes.
The zonal office in Awka will provide a platform for the EFCC to engage with stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and civil society organizations, to promote a culture of transparency and accountability. The office will also serve as a hub for the agency's operations in the region, enabling it to respond promptly to emerging trends and threats in the area.
The establishment of the EFCC zonal office in Awka marks a significant milestone in the agency's efforts to combat economic and financial crimes in Nigeria. With the support of the governments of Anambra and Imo states, the EFCC is poised to make a positive impact on the region's economy and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- The EFCC has inaugurated a zonal office in Awka to protect Anambra and Imo states from cyber crimes and economic sabotage.
- The office aims to promote transparency, accountability, and due process across all sectors of governance in the region.
- The EFCC's move is expected to boost investor confidence and promote economic development in Anambra and Imo states.
