The Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI) is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Transparency and Corruption Risk Assessment (TACRA) initiative. The tool marks a significant stride in CeFTPI’s mission to strengthen governance, promote public sector accountability, and combat corruption in Nigeria.
Since its inception in 2017, CeFTPI, a non-governmental and non-partisan organization, has developed innovative tools to empower citizens and foster institutional accountability. Building on the success of its Transparency and Integrity Index (TII), the new TACRA initiative provides a robust, data-driven framework to systematically identify, assess, and address corruption risks across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
How TACRA Works
TACRA reviews MDAs sequentially, offering an in-depth analysis of systemic vulnerabilities. The initiative leverages advanced technology and methodologies consistent with global standards, including the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). It’s designed to:
· Map Corruption Hotspots: Pinpoint high-risk areas in budgeting, procurement, and service delivery.
· Promote Preventive Measures: Recommend reforms to strengthen internal controls, whistleblower protection, and institutional responsiveness.
· Empower Citizens and Oversight Bodies: Publish accessible reports that drive advocacy, inform policy reforms, and support judicial interventions. This ensures that the public, as the ultimate stakeholders, can demand accountability.
The inaugural assessment, code-named TACRA 001, focuses on the Niger Delta Development Commission and highlights critical corruption risks while providing concrete recommendations to enhance its operational accountability. This assessment sets the precedent for future phased reviews of other MDAs.
A Call to Action Against Corruption
In a time when corruption erodes economic growth, weakens trust in institutions, and fuels inequality, TACRA is more than just an assessment—it’s a call to action. Dr. Umar Yakubu, Executive Director of CeFTPI, stated, “Transparency is the bedrock of integrity, and integrity is the foundation of a secure and prosperous Nigeria. Through TACRA, we are not just diagnosing risks; we are providing the evidence and tools to help leaders, civil society, and citizens build resilient institutions that truly serve the people.”
This initiative is consistent with key national frameworks, including the Freedom of Information Act (2011), the Public Procurement Act (2007), and the Fiscal Responsibility Act (2007). CeFTPI calls on all MDAs, policymakers, development partners, and the media to join this vital effort to entrench transparency and accountability throughout Nigeria.