The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has raised concerns about the catastrophic effects of corruption on Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Speaking during the International Anti-Corruption Day event organized by the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) on December 04, 2024 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, ICPC's Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Mrs. Ekere Usiere, urged Nigerians to summon the courage to expose corrupt practices.
In her keynote address titled "From Fear to Courage: Overcoming Barriers to Whistleblowing in Nigeria," Usiere stressed the need for citizens to actively participate in the fight against corruption.
She further warned that the survival of the nation hinges on defeating corruption, which has entrenched economic stagnation and socio-political decay.
“There is no gainsaying that corruption has brought Nigeria to its knees,” she said. “If we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria. A robust whistleblower mechanism is crucial for this fight, but it requires courage. Fear must be replaced with determination. If you see something, say something. If you hear something, say something.”She added.
Usiere highlighted cultural, psychological, and systemic challenges that discourage whistleblowing but emphasized the need for citizens to overcome these barriers.
She also described whistleblowing as a vital tool for exposing and addressing corruption, urging participants to embrace the initiative fearlessly.
The Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Wabote, commended the ACTU for organizing the event.
While addressing participants, He reaffirmed the board’s commitment to combating corruption through preventive measures, capacity building, and system checks.
“We have taken deliberate steps to curb corruption within the NCDMB,” Wabote said. “Our staff undergo regular anti-corruption training, and we have implemented risk assessments in key areas such as procurement, human resources, and monitoring and evaluation.
These measures are designed to mitigate vulnerabilities and uphold integrity within the board.”
The event also featured a debate competition among secondary schools from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Federal Government College, Warri, Delta State, emerged victorious, while Federal Government College, Kazaure, Jigawa State, secured second place.
The day’s activities emphasised the importance of collective action in tackling corruption and emphasized the role of youth in building a transparent and accountable Nigeria.
