Solid minerals, steel ministries launch anti-corruption unit

The Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development have jointly launched an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU)
in line with the mandate of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC)

In a bid to boost transparency and accountability, the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development jointly established an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in line with the mandate of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, the Director of Human Resource Management, Mrs Ijeoma Idika, who represented the Permanent Secretaries of both ministries, said that the formation of ACTU is a key step in adhering to the ICPC’s mandate to promote transparency, accountability, and combat corruption across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The ministries recall that the launch of ACTU demonstrates their renewed commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance, adding that, “The unit will work closely with the ICPC to identify and address corruption risks, ensure compliance with anti-corruption laws, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability within the ministries.”

READ ALSO: South-West: 39 dams moribund over poor maintenance, obsolete equipment  

The high point of the ceremony was the induction of 12 members into the new ACTU.

Idika further stressed the role of the Anti-Corruption Unit, saying: “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 sanitized and efficient work environment.”

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 among the staff members in fulfilling their assigned roles with a strong commitment and adherence to ethical standards in the execution of their duties.

A statement issued by Chinwe Ekwugha, on behalf of the ministries, noted that the ACTU within the ministries was first inaugurated in 2009 and has since played a pivotal role in promoting effective accountability.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, represented by the Director of the 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.