the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman, has initiated a comprehensive restructuring process. This restructuring encompasses the appointment of Mr. Michael Nzekwe as Chief of Staff and the selection of Zonal Directors for all 14 Zonal Commands of the Commission.
Mr. Nzekwe brings a wealth of experience to his new role, being a distinguished investigator, lawyer, and former Commander of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC. Having served across various pivotal departments within the Commission, including Legal and Prosecution, Operations (now Investigations), Internal Affairs (now Ethics and Integrity), Servicom, and Asset Forfeiture, his expertise is expected to bolster the Commission’s operations significantly.
As part of the restructuring, all Zonal Commands have been elevated to Department status, each overseen by a Director. Consequently, 14 new Directors have been appointed to lead these vital units. Additionally, the Security Unit has been upgraded to a Department, with a seasoned officer appointed as Director, Security and Chief Security Officer, to enhance the Commission’s security framework.
A new Department has also been established within the Executive Chairman’s office, headed by Mr. Friday Ebelo, former Makurdi Zonal Commander, who now serves as Director and Coordinator, Special Duties at the Commission’s headquarters. Furthermore, the former Department of Internal Affairs has been renamed the Department of Ethics and Integrity, with minor organizational adjustments implemented at the headquarters.
An integral aspect of the restructuring initiative is the creation of a new Department tasked with driving the EFCC’s Preventive Mandate. The Fraud Risk Assessment and Control Department has been established for this purpose, already commencing operations to strengthen the Commission’s proactive efforts in combating financial crimes nationwide.
Mr. Olukoyede emphasized that these strategic changes are designed to reposition and strengthen the EFCC, enabling it to fulfill its mandate with utmost efficiency and effectiveness.
