EFCC’s Efforts Bring New Hope: Port Harcourt Refining MD Praises Anti-Corruption Training

Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Managing Director of Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, Mr. Ibrahim M. Onoja, lauded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its role in fostering national growth and development. Speaking at the closing ceremony of a specialized three-month training program on Petroleum Product Quality Analysis, Onoja praised the EFCC for its persistent efforts against corruption and fraud.

During the ceremony, Onoja acknowledged the Commission’s relentless fight against various forms of fraud, including internet scams, illegal oil bunkering, and other illicit activities. He emphasized that the EFCC’s work provides hope for a better future for Nigeria. “I thank the EFCC for their efforts in tackling fraudsters and other challenges. Their work gives us hope that Nigeria can become the best country in the world by overcoming these challenges,” Onoja stated.

The training, which began on April 29, 2024, included five officers from the EFCC’s Chemical Forensics Laboratory Department. The participants were Head of the Department, Ivoke Paul Agwu, along with Etim Ubong Christopher, Umar Aliyu Musa, Jefferey Onyekachi Okwunwa, and Ifenkwe Emeka Henry. Onoja commended the interns for their discipline and dedication throughout their time at the refinery. “The interns showed great commitment and professionalism, even when meeting some of the demands took time,” he added.

Agwu, one of the trainees, highlighted that the purpose of the training was to familiarize analysts with modern chemical laboratory management practices and the analysis of petroleum products. “We learned about sample collection, preparation, and analysis, as well as laboratory management, quality control, and safety procedures,” Agwu explained.

Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Acting Zonal Director for Port Harcourt, ACE 1 Adebayo Adeniyi, also expressed gratitude for the support provided by Port Harcourt Refining Company. He emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration and praised the trainees for their transformation into skilled forensic experts. “I appreciate the MD and all the staff for their efforts. Collaboration between government agencies is crucial, and we should view each other as partners in progress,” Adeniyi said.

The training not only enhanced the skills of the EFCC officers but also reinforced the ongoing relationship between the EFCC and Port Harcourt Refining Company. This partnership is expected to further strengthen efforts in combating corruption and advancing forensic expertise in the country.