SSDC, EFCC Move to Strengthen Transparency in South-South Projects
By Ekanem Asuquo
The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has announced plans to deepen collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to entrench transparency and accountability in its activities.
SSDC Managing Director, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, disclosed this on Thursday during a courtesy visit to EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Akpabio explained that the partnership would help ensure the commission’s financial operations are strictly aligned with national laws and international best practices.
She lauded the EFCC’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and applauded the reforms initiated under Olukoyede’s leadership.
Reiterating SSDC’s zero tolerance for corruption and financial leakages,
Akpabio emphasized that transparency, accountability, and integrity remain central to its mandate. “We are committed to aligning all our operations with EFCC compliance standards from inception,” she assured.
The SSDC chief also highlighted the agency’s mission to fast-track development across the South-South region, seeking EFCC’s support in monitoring financial transactions linked to its projects.
She further requested specialized training for SSDC staff on cybercrime prevention and proposed joint public sensitization campaigns on financial crimes.
In his response, Olukoyede welcomed the SSDC’s initiative and pledged the EFCC’s full cooperation.
He underscored the importance of adherence to financial regulations and anti-corruption measures, promising assistance in fraud risk assessment, capacity building, and awareness programmes.
Olukoyede also noted that the EFCC Academy is certified to provide training nationwide and urged the SSDC to maintain focus on improving livelihoods and promoting good governance in the South-South region.
