The Ilorin Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Michael Nzekwe, has expressed the willingness of the anti-graft agency to collaborate with the Nigerian Army in the task of fighting corruption and terrorism financing in the country.

Nzekwe gave this assurance when he visited the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Kwara State.

“The visit becomes imperative as the Army is a critical stakeholder in the fight against corruption and terrorism financing, which is part of our core mandate.

“It is, therefore, necessary and important for the Nigerian Army to join hands with us to end corruption in Nigeria by identifying and cutting off the source of financing for the terrorists,” Nzekwe said.

While calling for enhanced synergy between the two agencies, Nzekwe described the existing relationship as cordial saying, “the EFCC already have a cordial relationship with Nigerian Army. We have come a long way. One of our strategic plans and objectives says that, as a Commission, we must engage all stakeholders and work in synergy with all Law Enforcement Agencies, (LEAs) in order to deliver on our mandate.”

He further stated that the mandate of the EFCC and that of the Army was intertwined and complementary.

He expressed optimism that if the two agencies partner very well in the discharge of their duties, Nigeria would be the greatest beneficiary.

“While the Army ensures territorial stability and peace all round, the EFCC fights corruption to ensure socio-economic stability for the people of the country,” he added.

Responding, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Adebayo Babalola, commended the giant strides of the EFCC, adding that the Nigeria Army would continue to strengthen ties with the anti-graft commission in its efforts to rid the country of corruption.

''Your success as an agency of government is our success. The military high command believes much in collaboration and synergy. To this end, I can assure you that anytime you need our support, you will get it because no agency of government can do it alone,” Brig-Gen Babalola stated.