The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kano has assured journalists of closer collaboration in the ongoing campaign against corruption and economic crimes.
Acting Zonal Director of the Commission, Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, made the pledge when he received executives of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the EFCC’s zonal head office in Kano.
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Sa’ad described the media as a critical stakeholder in the anti-graft war, noting that journalists play a vital role in creating awareness, exposing corruption, and promoting accountability. He assured that the EFCC’s doors remain open for cooperation, urging reporters to partner with the Commission in combating financial crimes.
Highlighting the responsibilities of the press, the EFCC chief emphasized the need for journalists to verify information before publishing in order to avoid misinformation. He also reminded them of their liberty to report suspected economic and financial crimes, even anonymously, as provided under Section 7 of the EFCC Establishment Act 2004.
On capacity building, Sa’ad welcomed proposals for training and workshops that would sharpen journalists’ skills in anti-corruption reporting. He added that the Commission is committed to supporting sensitization programs and awareness campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of corruption.
Responding, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Murtala Adewale, commended the EFCC’s commitment to fighting corruption and expressed optimism about improved cooperation. He called for more training opportunities to build the capacity of journalists, stressing that continuous skill development would enhance effective reporting of financial crimes.
