*As Gowon-led think tank institute honours him with Doctoral Fellow over role in P&ID case
Former Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), AIG Ibrahim Magu (rd), has called for a vigourous and wholistic approach to the fight against corruption in the country, saying that the social evil is a major impediment against our collective progress as a nation.
Magu spoke on Saturday during the conferment of a doctoral fellow on him by the General Yakubu Gowon-led think tank Institute for Governance and Leadership Studies in Africa (IGLSA) at the African University of Science & Technology, in Abuja.
The Gowon- led institute further disclosed that it honoured Magu with the doctoral fellow on the grounds of his dynamic leadership role in the EFCC and for establishing fraud in P&ID case, paving the way for favourable judgment from London Court, which ruled in Nigeria’s favour and saved the country from the biggest scam and fraudulent arbitral award of $11.5billion.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari had on July 10, 2020, approved the suspension of Magu as the acting Chairman of the EFCC.
Umar Gwandu, the spokesperson to the former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), stated this in a statement made available from the office of AGF.
It is instructive to note that the former AGF Malami had accused Magu of alleged involvement in corruption and insubordination.
Malami added that Magu’s suspension was in order to allow for unhindered inquiry by the former President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Isa Salami- led Presidential Investigation Panel.
But the report of Salami panel was not made available to the general public while there was no White Paper arising from the Salami Report when Buhari left office in May 29, 2023.
Magu, who gave the acceptance speech on behalf of other awardees at the event, said the bane of corruption is the reason for the lack of adequate and sufficient dividends that come with democracy.
According to Magu, if corruption is reduced to barest minimum, it is certain that basic provisions that governance offer will be guaranteed for all and sundry.
He said, “This recognition is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the dedicated individuals at the EFCC and all stakeholders in the fight against corruption in Nigeria .
“With the benefit of hindsight and having been at the helm of affairs of the foremost anti-graft agency in Nigeria, I wish to state that fighting corruption is not an easy task. It is a patriotic and selfless service to one’s fatherland. This is because corruption is pervasive and for an agency to tackle this monster headlong, all hands must be on deck.
” I wish to state with a high sense of responsibility that the fight against corruption must be pursued with vigour as corruption remains the impediment against our collective progress as a nation.
“I urge the government to persevere in the relentless fight against corruption, as a corruption-free nation is the bedrock for sustainable economic growth and positive development. Let us work hand in hand to break free from the vicious grip of corruption and pave the way for a brighter future for Nigerians.
“Nigeria is blessed with an abundance of human and natural resources. As a matter of fact, our solid minerals in all the 36 states can fetch the country enough revenue to sustain governance and provide basic amenities for all Nigerians.
Speaking further, Magu said, “There is a need to encourage Nigerians in the Diaspora to return home and invest, because the government offers incentives that will encourage a conducive business environment.
“This development will create economic boost and reduce the incidence of unemployment, curb youth restiveness and JAPA syndrome.
“As our nation adapts to this new reality, emphasising infrastructure development becomes fundamental to our economic growth. Investments in key sectors like transportation, energy, and telecommunications not only enhance internal connectivity but also boost Nigeria’s appeal for foreign investments. This contributes to a more resilient and diversified economy, generating employment and fostering sustainable development.
“Creating a conducive business environment is crucial for any economic prosperity. So, we must simplify bureaucratic processes, by promoting ease of doing business and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to empower local businesses. This will encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and technology.
“A secure environment is vital for sustained economic growth. Strengthening law enforcement agencies, enhancing intelligence gathering, and promoting community policing are essential in addressing security challenges, “ Magu added.
Other dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Idi Barde Gubana, who represented the Governor of Yobe State , Mai Mala Buni, who also received a distinguished Fellow Award from the institute, former Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof Nuhu Yaqub, two legal luminaries: Prof Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN) and Kayode Ajulo (SAN), Engr. Ibiam Oguejiofor, the National Coordinator, Presidential Executive Order 5 and other important personalities from different walks of life.
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