The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has said that corruption continues to mask God’s abundant blessings on Nigeria and impede the country from realising its full potential.

Olukoyede made the remark in Abuja on Wednesday in his Christmas message to Nigerians, where he called for collective action against corruption to unlock national prosperity and strength.

He said corruption remained one of the greatest challenges confronting the country, noting that it had slowed development and hindered the manifestation of the abundant life God intended for the nation.

According to him, Nigeria possesses enormous human and natural resources capable of making it one of the strongest and most prosperous nations in the world, but these potentials have been undermined by corrupt practices.

“Let us join hands together to make our nation greater, stronger and richer. Corruption is a serious drawback, and we must confront it more fiercely to allow the abundant life of God to manifest in our nation,” the EFCC chairman said.

Olukoyede urged Nigerians to resist corruption in all its forms and work together to build a country that is prosperous, peaceful and respected among the comity of nations.

He also called on citizens to embrace the values exemplified by Jesus Christ, such as love, hope and light, describing them as essential virtues needed to move the nation forward.

“Nigeria needs the refreshing hope, love and light which Christ brought to the entire world. These values are critical to our national rebirth and collective progress,” he said.

The EFCC boss further encouraged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it should rekindle confidence in the country’s future and inspire belief in Nigeria’s ability to overcome its present challenges.

“Let the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President ignite fresh hopes of revival in us and reassure us that Nigeria will rise again,” Olukoyede added.

He made the call against the backdrop of prevailing economic challenges, declining public trust in governance, and sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb corruption and financial crimes across the country.