EFCC Boss Olukoyede Vows to Boost Staff Capacity for Global Excellence

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the skills and competencies of the Commission’s staff to ensure global competitiveness and adherence to best practices.

Olukoyede made this pledge on Friday, August 30, 2024, during the second Director’s Lecture organized by the Commission’s Public Affairs Directorate (PAD) for officers at its headquarters and the 14 Zonal Commands. The announcement was shared via a statement on the Commission’s official X account (formerly Twitter).

Represented by the Director of the Public Affairs Directorate, Commander of the EFCC, CE Wilson Uwujaren, Olukoyede stated, “I am committed to building the capacity of officers of the Commission and ensuring the continuation of the culture of best practices for which the Commission is known. As communication officers of the EFCC, the Director’s Lecture aims to enhance your capacity to deliver on the Commission’s mandate, particularly in public affairs.”

The lecture, themed “Staying Relevant in the Changing World of Communications: Practitioner’s Guide,” was delivered by Professor Tony Iredia, a renowned media and communication expert and former Director-General of both the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA). Professor Iredia, who also served as a spokesperson for the National Electoral Commission (NEC), shared insights on the evolving landscape of communication.

Highlighting the importance of targeted communication, Iredia emphasized that effective communication hinges on understanding the appropriate content for different audiences. “There is nobody who does not need communication, but there are different publics, and what we say to one group of people is not exactly what we should say to another. If we cannot differentiate this, then we are not communicators,” he stated.

Professor Iredia commended the EFCC for its commitment to staff development. “I congratulate you for your desire to learn. In many organizations, there is a lack of training and induction courses, and even fewer prioritize communication. Communication is essential to everyone,” he added, referencing Section 39 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.

His presentation covered various aspects, including the nature and meaning of communication, the evolution of communication practices, types of communication actors, best practices for both internal and external communication, and the significance of maintaining strong media relations.

Concluding the event, the Director of PAD expressed gratitude to Professor Iredia on behalf of the EFCC Chairman, stating, “You have given us the opportunity to benefit from your experiences and to tap into your wealth of knowledge. The officers of the Directorate have gained valuable insights into the nuances of communication and media relations. On behalf of the Executive Chairman, I want to thank you for this enlightening presentation. We are deeply appreciative of the knowledge you have shared with us, particularly the emphasis on amplifying internal communication.”

The EFCC remains committed to fostering continuous professional development for its staff to better serve the Commission and the nation.