RismadarVoice Reporters
October 6, 2026
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has received the 2026 Heroes of Democracy Award in recognition of his contributions to the fight against economic and financial crimes and corruption in Nigeria.
The award was presented during the 66th Nigeria Democracy Lecture held in Abuja on September 26, 2026, under the theme, “Politics, Governance and the Impact of Leadership in Nigeria’s Democracy.”
Olukoyede was represented at the event by the Head of the EFCC’s Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit, ACE II Aisha Mohammed.
Speaking through his representative, the EFCC chairman linked the fight against corruption to the strengthening of democratic governance, arguing that assets and funds recovered from criminal activities could be redirected towards programmes that benefit Nigerians.
He cited the deployment of recovered funds to initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as an example of how proceeds of crime could be redirected towards national development.
Olukoyede also said the commission’s campaign against cybercrime was aimed at encouraging young Nigerians to channel their skills, innovation and creativity towards legitimate and productive ventures.
National Coordinator and organiser of the event, Idakwo Oruma, said the award was designed to recognise individuals whose service and contributions had supported Nigeria’s democratic development.
According to him, the initiative also seeks to promote leadership, service, unity, sacrifice, integrity, cultural preservation and responsible citizenship.
Oruma said the Heroes Award provides a platform for recognising individuals considered to have contributed to democratic values and national development.
The Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Dr Mainasara Umar Kogo, was among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
