Former Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, has urged Nigerian youths to take the lead in ending the country’s long-standing cycle of corruption.

Speaking on Wednesday at the gala night of the National Industrial Manpower Summit 2025, held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, Magu said corruption remains the biggest obstacle to Nigeria’s growth.

The event, themed “Manpower Development – The Bridge Between Potential and Productivity”, focused on building the capacity of young Nigerians for national development.

Magu also called for reforms such as transparent recruitment, proper use of education funds, and protection for whistleblowers.

“If manpower is the engine of national development, then anti-corruption is the oil that keeps that engine running,” he said.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Magu expressed confidence in Nigeria and its young people, saying the country’s future is already within reach and ready to be shaped.

While leading the EFCC between 2015 and 2020, Magu secured the conviction of over 600 individuals for corruption-related offences.