The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered N13 billion in diverted public funds over the past 30 days, a major milestone in its ongoing efforts to tackle corruption.
The recovery comes as part of the ICPC’s renewed push to strengthen transparency and accountability, outlined in its 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan, which was launched on Wednesday in Abuja.
ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, highlighted the commission’s recent achievements during the launch, pointing to reforms that have helped the agency better fight corruption. These reforms include the digitalization of operations through ICT advancements and the decentralization of anti-corruption efforts to state governments. He emphasized that cooperation is key in the battle against corruption.
“The fight against corruption cannot be won by any single institution alone. Over the past year, the ICPC has made significant progress; for example, we recovered over N13 billion in diverted public funds in September 2024 alone,” Dr. Aliyu said.
“Let us move forward with renewed determination, knowing that together, we can build a Nigeria where corruption has no place.”
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described corruption as a “cancer” that undermines society. He pledged the Federal Government’s full support for the ICPC’s initiatives and stressed the importance of working with other agencies to ensure justice.
“Corruption is a cancer that eats away at the very fabric of our society. The launch of this Strategic Action Plan is both timely and necessary. It represents a clear roadmap for the Commission to strengthen its operations, enhance transparency, and deepen collaboration with stakeholders,” Fagbemi said.
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, spoke on the broader implications of corruption, noting that it extends beyond financial misconduct to include issues of integrity and accountability. She called for a comprehensive approach that includes effective planning and strong collaboration.
“Corruption isn’t just about money; it’s failing to do what you ought to. Planning and implementation are vital. Collaboration, cooperation, and a strong will are also crucial,” Justice Dongban-Mensem said.
Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, praised the ICPC’s strategic plan, emphasizing that successful implementation is key.
“Having a strategy is like having a refined tool at your disposal. However, what is crucial is the implementation—requiring ability, commitment, proficiency, and the necessary discourse to execute it,” Olukoyede stated.
“I am looking forward to a highly committed approach to its implementation, ensuring it flows from the top down to every member.”
Key components of the ICPC’s five-year plan include enhancing enforcement capabilities through specialized training, launching EthicsPod—a digital platform to promote transparency and accountability—and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders.
The plan is aligned with national policies such as Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026, providing a comprehensive framework for combating corruption over the next five years.