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’s long-standing cycle of corruption.
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’s growth.
The event, themed “Manpower Development – The Bridge Between Potential and Productivity”, focused on building the capacity of young Nigerians for national development.
“Corruption is not just a government problem. It is a cultural problem. And it is up to you to break the cycle,” he said.
Magu linked the country’s manpower challenges directly to corruption.
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.
Magu warned that the effects of corruption go beyond stolen money.
“Corruption kills innovation. It kills hope. And worst of all, it kills the spirit of the Nigerian youth,” he added.
The retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police expressed confidence in the resilience of young Nigerians.
“Our 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,” he said.
He challenged young people to embrace honesty and reject shortcuts.
“You are the link to Nigeria’s progress, and you can lead the country forward if you embrace integrity over impunity and recognise that genuine leadership starts with character.”
Magu also called for reforms such as transparent recruitment, proper use of education funds, and protection for whistleblowers.
“If manpower is the engine of national development, then anti-corruption is the oil that keeps that engine running,” he said.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Magu expressed confidence in Nigeria and its young people, saying the country’s future is already within reach and ready to be shaped.
While leading the EFCC between 2015 and 2020, Magu secured the conviction of over 600 individuals for corruption-related offences.
Youths must break cycle of corruption – Ex-EFCC chairman, Magu
