Following the recent indefinite suspension of Abdulrasheed Bawa by President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government has announced the appointment of Abdulkarim Chukkol as the acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Chukkol brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously undergone training at prestigious institutions such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy in Quantico. Additionally, he has also received training at the European Centre of Security Studies in Germany and is a Fellow of the War College in Nigeria.

With his extensive training and background in law enforcement and security, Chukkol’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the EFCC’s efforts in combating financial crimes and ensuring effective governance. His experience and expertise gained from these renowned institutions will likely contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

Abdulkarim Chukkol, the newly appointed acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), holds an impressive educational background. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Maiduguri in 2000. In addition to his undergraduate degree, Chukkol also possesses a Post Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia in the United States. Furthermore, he has a Graduate Diploma in Cybersecurity and Spectrum Management from the United States Telecommunication Training Institute in Washington DC.

Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesperson for the EFCC, disclosed this information in a statement. Uwujaren highlighted that Chukkol, prior to assuming his new role, had been serving as the Director of Operations at the commission. This indicates that Chukkol has gained substantial experience within the EFCC, particularly in the operational aspects of combating economic and financial crimes.

Chukkol’s educational achievements and previous position within the EFCC position him well to take on the responsibilities of acting Chairman. His diverse educational background, which includes expertise in agricultural economics, criminal justice education, and cybersecurity, equips him with a broad perspective and skill set to address the complex challenges associated with financial crimes.

The statement partly read: “Following Wednesday, June 14, 2023, suspension of Mr Abdulrasheed Bawa as Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission by the Federal Government, Mr Abdulkarim Chukkol has stepped in as acting Chairman of the commission.

“A pioneer staff of the commission and an illustrious member of the EFCC Cadet Course One, Mr Chukkol is a consummate and vastly experienced investigator with a specialty in cybercrime and money laundering.

“His command appointments in the commission include spells as Head of the Advance Fee Fraud and Cybercrime Sections of the Lagos and Abuja zonal commands between 2011 and 2016, pioneer commander of the Uyo zonal command in 2017 and commander of Port Harcourt Zonal Command in 2020,”

In addition, Uwujaren highlighted that Chukkol has actively engaged in numerous special operations alongside international law enforcement organizations. Furthermore, he maintains strong collaborations with various law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to the FBI, UK National Crime Agency, United States Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, Australian Federal Police, Dutch Police, German Police, and South African Police.