In a recent retreat of the Board and Management of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Umar Yakubu, Executive Director of the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, emphasized the critical role of integrity within anti-corruption agencies, urging the Commission’s management staff to embrace integrity as a guiding principle.
During his address, Dr. Yakubu envisioned the ICPC not only as a body dedicated to fighting corruption but as an exemplar of the highest ethical standards. He pointed out that the ICPC’s credibility and effectiveness depend significantly on its own internal transparency and accountability. His presentation laid out a strategic roadmap for strengthening internal practices, aiming to position the commission as a beacon of integrity in Nigeria’s public sector.
Dr. Yakubu described integrity as a blend of honesty and firm moral principles, stressing that it must be more than a theoretical concept. He highlighted the importance of integrity as a foundational element in the ICPC’s operations, noting that the agency’s mission to combat corruption is inherently linked to its internal credibility and public trust.
On accountability, Dr. Yakubu proposed a series of internal reforms designed to enhance the ICPC’s integrity. He recommended the establishment of independent audit units that report directly to the Board and advocated for a merit-based system in hiring and promotions to eliminate favoritism. Additionally, he stressed the importance of strict enforcement of asset declarations and conflict-of-interest policies as vital measures to prevent internal corruption and maintain the agency’s credibility.
Dr. Yakubu also emphasized that cultivating a culture of integrity requires leadership commitment from the top down. He recommended consistent ethical behavior from leaders and regular training to ensure staff alignment with integrity values. Tools such as employee surveys and recognition programs were suggested to monitor and promote ethical adherence, and fosters an environment where integrity is both practiced and measurable.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Yakubu articulated the broader mission of the ICPC: to lead by example within Nigeria’s public sector. By embedding transparency and accountability into its institutional framework, the ICPC can strengthen its moral authority and operational effectiveness. Integrity, he affirmed, is not just a goal but an ongoing commitment that must permeate every level of the organization, ultimately enhancing the commission’s impact in the fight against corruption.