Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has said corruption continues to hide Nigeria’s vast God-given blessings and remains a major factor holding the country back from realising its full potential.

Olukoyede made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja in his Christmas message to Nigerians, where he called for collective action against corruption as a pathway to national renewal, prosperity and strength.

According to the EFCC chairman, corrupt practices have persistently undermined Nigeria’s development, weakened institutions and prevented the country from enjoying the “abundant life” God intends for it.

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“Let’s join hands together to make our nation greater, stronger and richer. Corruption is a drawback. We should confront it more fiercely to allow the abundant life of God to manifest in our nation,” he said.

He urged Nigerians across all sectors to resist corruption in their daily lives and to support efforts aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and ethical conduct, stressing that the fight against corruption cannot be left to law enforcement agencies alone.

Olukoyede noted that a united national resolve against corruption would not only strengthen the economy but also improve Nigeria’s standing and credibility within the international community.

He further linked the Christmas season to the values of hope, love and renewal, saying Nigeria stands in need of the spiritual and moral rejuvenation symbolised by the birth of Christ.

“Nigeria needs the refreshing hope, love and light which Christ brought to the entire world,” he said.

The EFCC boss also called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, describing it as a framework capable of restoring confidence in the country’s future and rekindling belief in its ability to overcome persistent challenges.

“Let the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr. President ignite fresh hopes of revival in us that Nigeria will rise again,” Olukoyede added.

Olukoyede reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to its mandate of fighting corruption and financial crimes, while emphasising that meaningful national transformation would require the collective support and integrity of all Nigerians.