As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, the country is once again reminded that corruption remains one of the most persistent obstacles to its development. The effects are widespread, ranging from economic stagnation to insecurity and weakened institutions, with young Nigerians often bearing the greatest impact.

This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”, is very apt, as it builds on the campaign launched last year, which is to highlight the role of young people in the fight against corruption. With Nigeria’s population of more than 230 million skewed toward the youth, young Nigerians are not just a demographic fact, they are a strategic asset capable of shaping a more transparent and accountable future.

They possess the creativity, energy, and technological awareness needed to challenge long-standing systems of graft.  But to unlock this potential, Nigeria must make a deliberate effort to bring the youth into the front lines of the anti-corruption movement. Fighting corruption is vital, otherwise the youth risk being sucked into its vortex.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, needs to do more in engaging the youth in its advocacies beyond occasional sensitisation programmes. Across the country, corruption has become dangerously normalised in the eyes of many young Nigerians, whether through petty bribery, school admission rackets, job placement through the “connection” culture, or the opacity surrounding public decisions. When a generation grows up seeing such practices as normal, the cycle becomes even harder to break.

The youth must not be mere observers in the fight against corruption; they must also be active participants and leaders. They should actively participate in discussions, share their experiences and propose innovative solutions to combat corruption. The society has a major role to play in educating the youth on the impact of corruption.

The journey begins from home to the educational turf. Schools and universities must integrate civic responsibility and leadership training into their curriculum. When young people practise integrity collectively, it reduces the pressure to conform to corrupt norms.

Technology also offers powerful tools for accountability. With most young Nigerians active in the digital space, government institutions and civil society organisations should invest in youth-friendly reporting channels, open data portals, project-tracking platforms, and simplified whistle-blowing apps. These tools make it easier for young people to monitor governance and demand transparency.

Equally important is rewarding honesty. Public recognition and rewards, mentorship, scholarships and competitions that celebrate integrity can help re-enthrone ethical behaviour as the pathway to leadership rather than a disadvantage.

As we mark this year’s World Anti-Corruption Day, one fact is clear: the country cannot succeed in combating corruption without mobilising its youth. Their voices, reach and influence are indispensable. To secure a future anchored on transparency and good governance, Nigeria must empower its young people today.