The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed the agency's commitment to ensuring that assets recovered from corrupt individuals are utilized for the benefit of Nigerians.
Olukoyede made this declaration on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Southern Kaduna, a property that was formerly known as Nok University before being forfeited to the government through a court order after investigations revealed it was funded through illicit means.
Presidential Directive for Public Benefit
According to the EFCC, the property was repurposed following a directive from President Bola Tinubu to convert it into an educational facility for public use.
"This property has been returned to the people," Olukoyede stated. "Recovered assets will not be allowed to be relooted. It is no longer business as usual."
The EFCC chairman credited President Tinubu for the decision to repurpose the property for education, while also acknowledging the roles played by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani in facilitating the process.
World-Class Infrastructure
Describing the infrastructure at the site as exceptional, Olukoyede urged local residents and stakeholders to take ownership of the facility and protect it for future generations.
"Most universities don't have what we're seeing here. It is now up to you to preserve it for future generations," he emphasized.
The EFCC chairman revealed that academic activities are expected to commence by September 2025, adding that he would return to the institution when students begin their studies.
"This is what the fight against corruption is about, returning stolen resources to the people," Olukoyede remarked.
Significance for Southern Kaduna
Professor Barnabas Qurix, Vice Chancellor of the new university, described the handover as significant for the region. Similarly, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents Kaduna South, commended the project, noting that it signals progress in an area that has long been neglected.
The conversion of this property into an educational institution represents a concrete example of how anti-corruption efforts can directly benefit Nigerian citizens, particularly in the education sector which remains crucial for national development.
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