In a heartfelt seasonal address, the head of Nigeria's anti-graft agency has called on citizens to embody the core virtues of the Christmas celebration as a catalyst for national progress.
Olukoyede's Christmas Charge to the Nation
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, delivered a powerful Christmas message to Nigerians on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from Abuja. He emphasized that the nation is in urgent need of the transformative hope, unconditional love, and guiding light that the birth of Jesus Christ represents. Olukoyede stressed that moving the country forward is contingent on a collective commitment to these shared values.
He pointed out that national development hinges on a unified resolve. "Let us join hands together to make our nation greater, stronger and richer," the EFCC boss urged. He identified a major hurdle on this path, stating unequivocally that corruption remains a significant drawback to Nigeria's advancement.
A Fierce Confrontation Against Corruption
Olukoyede linked the spiritual essence of Christmas to the practical need for integrity in national life. He argued that for the nation to experience true abundance and prosperity, the scourge of corruption must be tackled head-on. "Corruption is a drawback, and we must confront it more fiercely to allow the abundant life of God to manifest in our nation," he declared.
This call to action reinforces the EFCC's mandate under his leadership and frames the fight against financial crimes as a moral imperative for national renewal.
Aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda
Beyond the call for unity and integrity, the Chairman expressed strong confidence in the federal government's central policy blueprint. He encouraged Nigerians to actively key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Olukoyede framed this agenda as a potent tool for national rebirth, capable of rekindling optimism across the country. "Let the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President ignite fresh hopes of revival in us, that Nigeria will rise again," he added with conviction.
The message, disseminated by the Commission's Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Dele Oyewale, also highlighted the Christmas season as an ideal period for reflection. Oyewale urged citizens to use this time to recommit to the essential pillars of national renewal, which he listed as:
- Integrity in public and private conduct.
- Unity across ethnic and religious lines.
- Selfless service to the community and nation.
Ultimately, Olukoyede's Christmas message blends spiritual exhortation with a clear-eyed assessment of Nigeria's challenges. It positions the values celebrated at Christmas—love, light, and hope—not just as personal virtues, but as indispensable foundations for building a more prosperous and globally respected Nigeria.
