Former Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, has urged Nigerian youths to take the lead in ending the country\u2019s long-standing cycle of corruption.<\/p>\n
Speaking on Wednesday at the gala night of the National Industrial Manpower Summit 2025, held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, Magu said corruption remains the biggest obstacle to Nigeria\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n
The event, themed \u201cManpower Development \u2013 The Bridge Between Potential and Productivity\u201d, focused on building the capacity of young Nigerians for national development.<\/p>\n
\u201cCorruption is not just a government problem. It is a cultural problem. And it is up to you to break the cycle,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Magu linked the country\u2019s manpower challenges directly to corruption.<\/p>\n
He noted that even when huge sums are spent on education, the absence of teachers and basic facilities points to corruption, adding that the departure of talented Nigerians due to limited opportunities is also a result of corrupt practices.<\/p>\n
Magu warned that the effects of corruption go beyond stolen money.<\/p>\n
\u201cCorruption kills innovation. It kills hope. And worst of all, it kills the spirit of the Nigerian youth,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
The retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police expressed confidence in the resilience of young Nigerians.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur youth are not lazy. They are starting tech companies in Yaba, running farms in Nasarawa, building fashion brands in Aba, and developing mobile apps in Kaduna,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He challenged young people to embrace honesty and reject shortcuts.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou are the link to Nigeria\u2019s progress, and you can lead the country forward if you embrace integrity over impunity and recognise that genuine leadership starts with character.\u201d<\/p>\n
Magu also called for reforms such as transparent recruitment, proper use of education funds, and protection for whistleblowers.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf manpower is the engine of national development, then anti-corruption is the oil that keeps that engine running,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment through the Renewed Hope Agenda.<\/p>\n
Magu expressed confidence in Nigeria and its young people, saying the country\u2019s future is already within reach and ready to be shaped.<\/p>\n
While leading the EFCC between 2015 and 2020, Magu secured the conviction of over 600 individuals for corruption-related offences.<\/p>\n
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