FG Approves Establishment of ACTU in MDA’s
By Patience Ikpeme
The Federal Government has approved the establishment of Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units (ACTUs) in all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
This move aims to enhance the understanding of corruption among workers and encourage their support for the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a statement from the federal ministry of finance, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, during the inaugural sensitization workshop organized by the Ministry’s ACTU for Directorate Cadre Officers (GL 15-17), emphasized the need for civil servants to uphold the highest principles, standards, transparency, accountability, and ethical values while conducting government business.
Mrs Jafiya highlighted the detrimental effects of corruption on society, including the erosion of justice, lack of trust, and hindrance to progress. She expressed concern that corruption extends beyond financial crimes, also encompassing acts of omission, negligence, and solicitation of commissions in the discharge of official responsibilities.
The sensitization workshop, she explained, serves as an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of systems and practices, guided by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) System Study and Evaluation Scorecard. Mrs Jafiya stressed the importance of raising awareness and identifying existing gaps in anti-corruption initiatives established by the Federal Government.
“As leaders entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the public trust, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to integrity and excellence,” Mrs Jafiya stated. She urged civil servants to lead by example and inspire others to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and accountability.
Furthermore, Mrs Jafiya called upon directors to collaborate and use their collective expertise and wisdom to drive meaningful change and foster a culture of integrity within institutions. She emphasized the need for unity in achieving a corruption-free future for the Federal Ministry of Finance and aligning with the policy objectives of the government.
The workshop aimed to sensitize directors on the importance of their supervisory roles in educating staff on integrity and discouraging corrupt practices in the workplace. The Acting Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to promoting sound work ethics and enforcing zero tolerance for graft. He emphasized the ministry’s significant role in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration.
The Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Egundebi Yemisi, also underscored the workshop’s role in deepening staff understanding of systematic evaluation processes, system study, and review. She emphasized the importance of using the ICPC Scorecard Template as a compass for gauging performance and progress toward anti-corruption goals.
The workshop was commended by participants for its significant contribution to combating corruption and anti-ethical behavior in government operations. They expressed optimism that the workshop’s outcome would motivate directors to intensify efforts in promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity within their respective institutions.
This proactive step by the Federal Government in establishing ACTUs across all MDAs showcases the commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance. It is expected to strengthen the fight against corruption and foster a more transparent and accountable public sector in Nigeria.
