In a significant announcement, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) revealed that it recovered N13 billion in public funds that were misappropriated in September 2024. This achievement was shared by Dr. Musa Aliyu, the ICPC chairman, during the launch of the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028 in Abuja on October 2, 2024.
Dr. Aliyu praised the recovery as a testament to the ICPC’s ongoing commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in Nigeria. He noted that this impressive recovery is just one of many successful efforts by the commission over recent years.
To enhance its operations, the ICPC is implementing technology reforms to digitize its processes. This modernization aims to improve investigations and case management, allowing the commission to be more effective in tackling corruption, especially in the digital age.
Moreover, the ICPC is developing a specialized training program to equip its officers with the necessary skills to handle complex corruption cases professionally. The commission is also decentralizing its anti-corruption efforts by empowering state governments, providing them with the tools and resources needed to combat corruption at the local level.
In September, the ICPC successfully held a conference with state attorneys-general, attended by over 30 chief law officers. In response to findings from the Third National Corruption Survey, the commission is intensifying its efforts to engage with citizens, civil society, and the media in anti-corruption campaigns.
A key initiative of the ICPC is the launch of the EthicsPod digital community, designed to promote transparency and accountability in public offices and daily life. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy outlined in the ICPC’s Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028, which builds on previous achievements and sets clear goals for the future.
The strategic plan aligns with key national policies, including the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026. Dr. Aliyu emphasized the need to focus on preventing corruption by identifying weaknesses within government systems through thorough assessments.
The ICPC will continue collaborating with Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units in various ministries and agencies to reinforce grassroots monitoring mechanisms. Dr. Aliyu reiterated that the success of this strategic plan depends on teamwork, cooperation, and partnerships among all stakeholders.
He urged everyone to collectively promote integrity in the system and engage citizens in the ongoing fight against corruption. Together, through shared sacrifice and discipline, the ICPC aims to mobilize support for this vital cause.
