EFCC Chairman Olukoyede Warns on University Fee Diversion

Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), addressed the issue of financial infractions in Nigerian universities, particularly the diversion of students' fees. Speaking in Kano during the 8th biennial conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State Universities in Nigeria, Olukoyede highlighted ongoing investigations by the EFCC into cases involving inflated contracts and ghost workers within tertiary institutions.

He warned that such practices undermine the integrity of the educational system and represent a betrayal of trust for Nigerian parents and taxpayers. Olukoyede called for universities to adopt artificial intelligence in their financial management systems to curb corruption and improve transparency.

He noted that despite the multi-billion naira budgets allocated to universities, including tuition and research grants, accountability remains a challenge. He urged the establishment of AI-driven governance committees to develop digital integration strategies and invest in necessary infrastructure, while cautioning that technology alone cannot solve corruption without addressing human integrity.