EFCC Chairman Olukoyede Honoured by Canada For Global Crime-Fighting Efforts
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has honoured EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede for his outstanding role in combating global crime.
During a ceremony on May 21, 2025, in Abuja, the Canadian High Commissioner, Pasquale Salvaggio, presented Olukoyede with a Certificate of Recognition.
The award highlights Olukoyede’s leadership and the EFCC’s contribution to tackling financial crimes, vehicle trafficking, drug smuggling, and online exploitation.
Salvaggio praised the EFCC for its effectiveness in dismantling cross-border criminal networks and enhancing international law enforcement cooperation.
He noted that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) opened a liaison office in Nigeria in 2021 to improve collaboration with local agencies.
The partnership between RCMP and EFCC has produced tangible outcomes, including asset recovery, financial restitution, and joint operations.
One of the major joint efforts, “Operation Hot Wheels,” involved EFCC and Nigeria Customs. It disrupted a major vehicle trafficking ring.
Salvaggio said the operation showed how partnerships could reinforce security and combat criminal networks that span multiple countries.
He emphasized that transnational crime must be met with transnational cooperation to ensure justice and global security.
In his remarks, Olukoyede expressed appreciation to the Canadian government for recognizing the EFCC’s work on the global stage.
He said the honour reflected years of collaboration between Canada and Nigeria in the area of anti-crime operations and intelligence sharing.
Olukoyede described today’s criminals as highly organized and transnational, stressing the need for stronger international cooperation.
He pledged that the EFCC would deepen its partnership with Canada and the RCMP to achieve greater success in global crime fighting.
Other Nigerian agencies also received awards. The Nigeria Customs Service, NDLEA, and Interpol Nigeria were each recognized for their support.
Customs boss Bashir Adeniyi, NDLEA Secretary Haruna Shadrack, and Assistant Inspector General Olaolu Adegbite received awards on behalf of their agencies.
The event marks a significant milestone in Canada-Nigeria security relations and showcases EFCC’s growing influence in global law enforcement.
