By Victoria Onehi
To enhance transparency and accountability, both Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development have jointly inaugurated a new Anti-corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in alignment with the mandate of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission ( ICPC).
Speaking during the inaugural ceremony, the Director, Human Resource Management, Mrs. Ijeoma Idika, who represented the Permanent Secretaries of both Ministries, stated that the induction of the newly appointed members of ACTU is a critical measure in adhering to the mandate set forth by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).
Mrs. Idika in a statement further emphasised the role of the Anti-Corruption Unit adding that it will help to promote transparency, accountability and fight against corruption across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
”It is the representative of the ICPC within the Ministries, with a vital role in fostering a transparent and accountable workforce which is crucial for maintaining a sanitised and efficient work environment”, the Director Human Resource Management added.
She further remarked on the Ministry of Solid Minerals mandate to develop the Mineral Sector, which is a significant avenue for diversifying the country’s revenue streams and enhancing the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP); stressing, collaborative efforts amongst the staff members in fulfilling their assigned roles with a strong commitment and adherence to ethical standards in the execution of their duties.
Mrs. Idika also noted that the ACTU within the Ministries was first inaugurated in 2009 and has since played a pivotal role in promoting effective accountability.
The highpoint of the ceremony was the induction of twelve members into the new ACTU.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, represented by the Director, Systems Study and Review Department, ICPC, Mr Olusegun Adigun, highlighted the collaboration between the ICPC and the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation. He noted that this collaboration, approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2001, was designed to serve as an in-house mechanism for preventing corruption in MDAs, aligning with global best practices.
A key moment in the event was the presentation of the ACTU operating manual to the representative of the Permanent Secretaries by the ICPC.
In his acceptance speech, the newly appointed Chairman of ACTU in the Ministries of Solid Minerals Development/ Steel Development, Mr. Christopher Tariq Wanji, expressed his gratitude to the Permanent Secretaries for entrusting him with this significant responsibility. He pledged to bring about a remarkable difference in this role, committing to the advancement of transparency and accountability within the ministries.
