The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sensitised members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ilorin, Kwara State, on their expected role in combating corruption.

The engagement, held at the Conference Hall of the Kwara State Ministry of Environment, Ilorin, brought together over 100 corps members drawn from the 2025 Batch B and C, as well as the 2026 Batch A streams.

Speaking at the session, the Head of Public Affairs of the Directorate, Babatunde Ayodele, urged participants to act as ambassadors of integrity in line with the preventive vision of EFCC Executive Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede. He stressed that young people are critical stakeholders in the drive to build a corruption-free society.

Ayodele, an Assistant Commander of the EFCC, explained that the Commission's mandate to prevent and prosecute economic and financial crimes, as well as recover stolen assets, can only be effectively realised when young leaders promote accountability, transparency and lawful prosperity within their spheres of influence.

He reiterated Olukoyede's stance that the anti-corruption fight must go beyond arrests and courtroom prosecutions to everyday choices and value systems, particularly among youths.

"The EFCC is not only about arrests and prosecutions. We are also deeply committed to prevention, and that is why this conversation with you is very important. The fight against corruption cannot be won in courtrooms alone; it must first be won in the hearts and decisions of young people like you," he said.

Ayodele outlined the objectives of the NYSC/EFCC Community Development Service (CDS) Group, highlighting its roles in anti-corruption advocacy, public enlightenment and community engagement. He encouraged corps members to organise awareness campaigns in schools, markets and places of worship, and to utilise creative platforms such as drama, debates and town hall meetings to educate the public on financial crimes including cyber fraud, identity theft and money laundering.

He further advised participants to reflect ethical leadership at their Places of Primary Assignment, warning against online fraud, the legal consequences of cybercrime and the dangers of acting as financial "mules." He also underscored the importance of whistleblowing, assuring them that established reporting channels within the EFCC help safeguard communities and strengthen the rule of law.

Ayodele concluded by reminding corps members that a successful service year is measured not only by postings and clearance but by purpose, impact and character.

"Your certificate will open doors, but your character will keep those doors open," he added, urging them to avoid shortcuts and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Responding on behalf of the NYSC, CDS Supervisor Mrs Abosede Gbolahan commended the Commission's preventive approach, describing it as consistent with national efforts to nurture a generation that rejects corruption.

She characterised the session as enlightening and motivating, reaffirming the corps members' commitment to ethical conduct throughout their national service.