ICPC Launches Strategic Plan, EthicsPod to Broaden Anti-Corruption Efforts

ICPC Launches Strategic Plan, EthicsPod to Broaden Anti-Corruption Efforts

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

In a landmark event held in Abuja, at the NAF Conference Centre on Wednesday, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) officially launched its 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and the EthicsPod digital platform—two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at intensifying Nigeria’s battle against corruption.

Showcasing the Commission’s recent achievements in his welcome address, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, emphasized the collaborative nature of the anti-corruption fight.

He noted that  “Over the past year, the ICPC has made significant progress in discharging its mandate; for example, we recovered over N13 billion in diverted public funds in September 2024 alone.” 

Aliyu highlighted the ICPC’s commitment to leveraging technology in its operations, revealing plans for ICT reforms that will enable “more efficient investigations and case management.”

According to Dr. Aliyu, the launch of EthicsPod represents a crucial step towards empowering citizens and fostering a culture of transparency, he described the digital community as a platform that will engage citizens, civil society, and the media.

 “These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy, forming the backbone of our Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028,” he stated.

The ICPC Boss further said SAP is designed around the Commission’s ‘CARE for Impact’ initiative—focusing on Culture, Accountability, Responsibility, and Efficiency—and aligns seamlessly with key national policies including the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026. 

“This plan provides a comprehensive roadmap for achieving our goals over the next five years,” he said, underscoring the necessity of collaboration across various sectors.

The Chairman also acknowledged the importance of grassroots involvement. “We have intensified efforts to identify institutional and administrative vulnerabilities through System Studies and Corruption Risk Assessments,” he noted, affirming the ICPC’s dedication to reinforcing its presence within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) through Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units (ACTUs).

Aliyu’s remarks resonated with the overarching sentiment of unity in purpose. “The success of this Strategic Plan will rely heavily on synergy, collaboration, and strategic partnerships. Together, we can institutionalise integrity in our systems and mobilise our citizenry to embrace the anti-corruption war.”

Also speaking at the occasion, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, commended the ICPC for the initiative, describing it as a significant milestone in the nation’s collective efforts to combat corruption and safequard the integrity of its public institutions.

Fagbemi added that the fight against corruption remains a top priority in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration and assured the Commission of his unwavering support.

“The fight against corruption remains a cornerstone of this administration’s agenda, as we recognize that corruption is a cancer that eats away at the very fabric of our society. It undermines trust, weakens institutions, and hampers our progress as a nation.

“In this light, the work of the ICPC is of paramount importance, not only in ensuring that corrupt practices are identified and prosecuted but also in fostering a culture integrity and accountability across all sectors.

“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 at all levels of government and the private sector.

“The plan will undoubtedly empower the ICPC to address emerging challenges, adapt to evolving threats, and more effectively carry out its mandate.

“As the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, I assure you of the Ministry of Justice’s unwavering support in providing the necessary legal framework, resources, and guidance to ensure that the objectives of this action plan are fully realized. We will continue to work closely with the ICPC and all other relevant agencies to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done,” Fagbemi promised.

The launch was attended by various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society representatives, and international partners, all eager to contribute to the collective fight against corruption in Nigeria.