EFCC charges staff on professionalism, integrity at Gombe Zonal directorate

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reinforced its commitment to ethical standards during a staff meeting at its Gombe Zonal Directorate.

Newly appointed Acting Zonal Director DCE Sa’ad Hannafi Sa’ad directly challenged personnel to demonstrate unwavering integrity in all operations.

Speaking forcefully during his inaugural address, Sa’ad outlined clear expectations for staff conduct.

He demanded strict adherence to EFCC core values including courage, professionalism and inter-agency collaboration when investigating financial crimes.

“Our success depends on your commitment to these principles daily,” he declared to assembled officers.

Furthermore, the director revealed strategic plans to achieve 2025 operational targets through enhanced intelligence gathering.

He specifically ordered improved coordination with sister security agencies to strengthen case prosecutions.

“We must maximize information sharing and tactical coordination,” Sa’ad instructed, emphasizing smarter investigative approaches.

Additionally, the director issued a stern warning against internal corruption.

He reminded staff that misconduct would attract severe sanctions, while praising ongoing welfare improvements under Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede.

“Appreciate these benefits by rejecting all corrupt temptations,” he cautioned during the Tuesday meeting.

Moreover, Sa’ad celebrated the zone’s 2024 achievements as proof of effective teamwork.

He insisted this performance level must continue, stating “Individual excellence collectively elevates our entire directorate.”

The address concluded with calls for sustained dedication to the EFCC’s corruption-fighting mission.

Notably, this meeting occurs amid Nigeria’s intensified anti-graft campaign.

The EFCC leadership clearly aims to prevent operational lapses that could undermine public trust in financial crime prosecutions.

Analysts observe that such internal reforms strengthen Nigeria’s position in global anti-corruption efforts.

Meanwhile, staff members have welcomed the director’s unambiguous directives.

Several investigators interviewed pledged renewed commitment, though some requested better tools to execute their demanding assignments effectively.

“We need modern forensic equipment to match sophisticated criminals,” one detective commented anonymously.

The Gombe zonal office currently handles numerous high-profile cases including embezzlement and contract fraud investigations.

Legal experts suggest that improved staff ethics could significantly boost conviction rates across Northeast Nigeria.

Ultimately, this leadership transition signals the EFCC’s determination to lead by example in Nigeria’s anti-corruption war.

As Sa’ad assumes office, observers will monitor whether his strict professionalism mandate translates into measurable operational improvements.

The Commission’s spokesman confirmed that similar integrity refreshers will occur nationwide.

This systematic approach demonstrates institutional learning from past challenges while preparing for evolving financial crime trends.

Financial analysts have praised the timing of this ethics reinforcement.

With Nigeria implementing economic reforms, robust anti-corruption enforcement becomes increasingly vital for investor confidence and development financing.

As the EFCC enters its 2025 operational cycle, its Gombe office’s performance may set benchmarks for other zones.

The director’s emphasis on measurable outcomes suggests coming months will bring intensified enforcement actions across the region.