The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting constructive initiatives aimed at tackling internet fraud among Nigerian youths.

Mr. Olukoyede made the statement on Saturday during the celebration of the International Day of the Boy Child held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

The event, themed “Boys for Integrity,” was organised to encourage young boys to embrace honesty, hard work and positive values as pathways to a better future.

Represented by the Head of Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Aisha Mohammed, the anti-graft agency boss stressed the importance of integrity, discipline and honesty in nation-building.

According to him, Nigeria’s fight against corruption can only succeed if young boys are raised to see integrity as part of their identity rather than a burden.

He noted that true adulthood is defined by character, especially when no one is watching, adding that boys must be intentionally taught the values of honesty, fairness and accountability.

Mr. Olukoyede further explained that the EFCC’s responsibilities go beyond arrests and prosecution, stressing that the commission is equally committed to enlightening and reorienting young Nigerians towards responsible living.

He said the commission established Integrity Clubs in primary and secondary schools, as well as Zero Tolerance Clubs in tertiary institutions, to instill ethical values and discourage involvement in economic and financial crimes.

President of the Great Achievers Initiative For Youths and Community Development, organisers of the event, Hillary Akpua, said the advocacy began several years ago due to concerns that the boy child was often overlooked in conversations about child development.

He explained that the organisation has continued to advocate for greater attention to the emotional, moral and social wellbeing of boys.

Akpua noted that football was adopted as part of the 2026 celebration because of its ability to unite people and attract wider participation among young boys.

Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Aminu Yakubu Wambai, Wakilin Raya Kasar Zazzau, urged the boys to prepare themselves for responsible leadership in the future. He also advised parents to serve as mentors, role models and counsellors to their children.

The event featured several sporting activities, including track events.

In the 100 metres race, Peter Emmanuel of Bill Clinton College emerged winner, while Gabriel Oche of Government Secondary School, Nyanya, finished second and Timothy Excellence of Winning Ways Academy came third.

For the 400 metres race, David Sunday of Government Secondary School, Karu, took first position, Egele Goodluck of God’s Grace International Academy came second, while Nathaniel Gunana of Bri Mike Montessori Academy secured third place.