The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on Nigerians to take collective responsibility in the fight against corruption, stressing that the task of cleansing the nation of graft should not be left to the Commission and law enforcement agencies alone.

This appeal was made on Thursday during a one-day capacity-building workshop for journalists and civil society organisations held at the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate.

Speaking at the event, Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, described corruption as a deeply entrenched national challenge that can only be defeated through public ownership and active citizen participation.

“There’s a need for public ownership in the fight against corruption and financial crimes. Every Nigerian should see this fight as one for all, not just for the EFCC,” Oyewale stated.

He expressed concern that corruption continues to undermine Nigeria’s economic and social development, linking it to the nation’s low Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and short life expectancy rates.

“Because of corruption, Nigeria’s GDP remains very low. The average life expectancy for men and women stands at just 49 and 53 years respectively. When you examine the root causes of poor infrastructure, weak institutions, and widespread poverty, corruption is at the heart of it,” he added.

In his opening remarks, CE Daniel Isei, Zonal Director of the EFCC’s Enugu office, explained that the workshop was designed to strengthen collaboration between the Commission, the media, and civil society groups, emphasizing a preventive and participatory approach to combating corruption.

According to him, sustained partnerships with stakeholders are crucial in reshaping public attitudes and building a culture of transparency, accountability, and integrity across all sectors of Nigerian society.