We’re Funding Students’ Loan with Recovered Loots — VP Shettima

The Federal Government has announced that funds and assets recovered from corruption cases are now being reinvested into the economy to finance key social programmes such as the Students’ Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Initiative.

Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this in Abuja on Monday while declaring open the 7th edition of the Capacity-Building Workshop for Judges and Justices, jointly organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima explained that the administration had adopted a new policy to redirect recovered proceeds of crime into productive sectors of the economy rather than allowing them to remain idle in government accounts.

“Every kobo recovered from corruption cases is being returned to the economy to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.

“These funds are now being channelled into vital social programmes like the Students’ Loan and Consumer Credit Schemes.”

The Vice President noted that the EFCC had achieved significant milestones under Tinubu’s administration, including over 7,000 convictions and the recovery of assets valued at more than ₦500 billion within two years.

He attributed the success to the government’s commitment to institutional independence and its policy of non-interference in the operations of anti-corruption agencies.

“Our policy of non-interference in the work of anti-corruption agencies has strengthened their credibility and boosted public trust,” Shettima stated.

“We have chosen to build strong institutions rather than strong individuals.”

Shettima also commended the judiciary for its steadfast role in the fight against corruption, noting that the Federal Government has taken steps to improve judges’ welfare and working conditions.

“The remuneration of judges has been reviewed upwards, and we remain committed to ensuring they have the resources needed to perform their duties with integrity,” he added.

Reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to the rule of law, the Vice President stressed that no individual, regardless of political status or office, is above investigation or prosecution.

“This administration does not shield anyone from accountability. We have allowed both the judiciary and anti-graft institutions to do their jobs without fear or favour,” he declared.

Shettima urged judges and public officers to uphold transparency and integrity, warning that corruption undermines every aspect of national development.

“Corruption does not discriminate. Its consequences reach every home and every sector,” he cautioned. “We must all join hands to defeat it if we truly want a nation that works for everyone.”

He concluded by calling for stronger collaboration among the executive, legislature, and judiciary, emphasising that sustainable development can only be achieved through collective action and accountability.

“A Nigeria free of corruption is achievable,” Shettima said. “But it requires that each of us, regardless of position, plays our part in upholding justice and integrity.”