Profile of Mohammed Umar Abba, the New Acting EFCC Chairman

In the wake of the recent suspension of AbdulRasheed Bawa, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), all eyes are now on Mohammed Umar Abba, the newly appointed Acting Chairman of the anti-corruption agency.

As he assumes this critical role, it is essential to delve into the background and experience of this seasoned law enforcement officer.

Born on June 22, 1965, in Tudunwada Local Government Area of Kano State, Mohammed Umar Abba embarked on his academic journey at Bayero University, Kano, where he obtained his first degree. After completing his education, he dedicated himself to serving his country and commenced his one-year national service at the old Anambra State Police Command.

Following his national service, Abba joined the esteemed Nigeria Police Force, commencing a remarkable career that would shape his path in law enforcement. His commitment and exceptional performance led him to attend the prestigious Nigeria Police Academy in Kaduna, where he was commissioned as an officer in 1992.

With his strong foundation in policing, CP Abba’s expertise and leadership abilities were recognized, and in January 2016, he was seconded to the EFCC to head the Counterterrorism and General Investigations (CTGI) Section at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja. It was during this tenure that he showcased his exceptional skills in tackling complex cases related to terrorism and general investigations.

Due to his remarkable achievements and dedication to duty, CP Abba was appointed as the Director of Operations of the EFCC in 2017. In this crucial role, he played a pivotal part in coordinating and executing various operations, contributing significantly to the agency’s mission of combating economic and financial crimes.

However, his trajectory took a significant turn on July 9, 2020, when he assumed the position of Acting Chairman of the EFCC, stepping in after the suspension of Ibrahim Magu. During his seven-month tenure as the acting head of the commission, Abba demonstrated exceptional leadership, maintaining the agency’s momentum and ensuring the smooth operation of its core functions.

On February 24, 2021, CP Abba made way for AbdulRasheed Bawa as the substantive Chairman of the EFCC. Nevertheless, his return to the Nigeria Police Force was marked by his unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order and upholding justice.

With his wealth of experience and demonstrated track record, Mohammed Umar Abba now faces the daunting task of leading the EFCC as its Acting Chairman once again. As he takes the reins, he assumes a position of great responsibility in the fight against corruption, ensuring that the agency continues to operate with integrity, transparency, and diligence.

As the nation watches, it is with anticipation and hope that CP Abba’s leadership will further strengthen the EFCC’s resolve to combat economic and financial crimes, safeguarding Nigeria’s financial interests, and upholding the principles of justice and accountability.