On January 21, 2025, stakeholders gathered at the Federal Capital Territory Multipurpose Hall Area 11, Abuja for the dialogue on the country’s anti-corruption efforts. The event was organized by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI) in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) to discuss the findings and recommendations of the recently published Civil Society Parallel Report on Nigeria’s implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).
The report evaluates Nigeria’s implementation of Chapters II (Preventive Measures) and V (Asset Recovery), two components of the Convention, and underscores both progress made and the persistent challenges in combating corruption. The report offered a nuanced view of Nigeria’s anti-corruption journey. On the one hand, there have been remarkable successes; the establishment of the Proceeds of Crime Act (2022) and enhanced mechanisms for reporting suspicious financial transactions are notable examples.
However, the report does not shy away from highlighting persistent challenges. Preventive measures, which are essential for mitigating corruption before it occurs, remain a major concern. The report noted that whistleblower protections are inadequate, leaving individuals hesitant to report misconduct due to fears of retaliation. Transparency in public procurement processes is inconsistent, and only a handful of states have domesticated the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), severely limiting public access to government records. Political interference in anti-corruption bodies further undermines their independence and effectiveness, creating a cycle where progress is often stifled.
Speaking at the launch, a member of the Center’s BoT, AIG Muazu Zubairu, rtd, said that the identified gaps and recommendations are not mere suggestions; “they are a call to action for all stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector. The fight against corruption is not an isolated effort; it requires a united front to build systems of integrity and accountability.”
On his part, Dr. Dasuki Arabi, the Director General of BPSR also called on stakeholders to join the government in the fight against corruption, stating that the dialogue was an “avenue to discuss, deliberate, and identify practical solutions to enhance our compliance with international anti-corruption standards. By addressing gaps in our framework and reinforcing ongoing reform efforts, we can further strengthen Nigeria’s anti-corruption agenda and build public trust in our institutions.”
The dialogue served not only as a platform to evaluate Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts but also as a chance to renew a collective commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity. The insights drawn from the report and the subsequent discussions offer a strong basis for driving meaningful progress in the country’s fight against corruption.