FEDERAL MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND NATIONAL ORIENTATION INAUGURATES ANTI-CORRUPTION AND TRANSPARENCY UNIT (ACTU)



The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), formally inaugurated and inducted the members of its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) on Thursday, 31st July 2025. The event, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Radio House, Abuja, marked a pivotal step in advancing ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability across the Ministry’s operations.


Delivering the opening address on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of Information and National Orientation, (Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam), Director, National Archives of Nigeria, Dr. Evelyn Odigboh welcomed the ICPC delegation, management staff, and guests, expressing the Ministry’s deep appreciation to the ICPC for its partnership and unwavering support.

In her remarks, she emphasized the significance of the day’s event as more than just a ceremonial function. “Today’s ceremony is a symbol of renewed commitment and a formal declaration that we, as a Ministry, are not only willing but fully prepared to rise to the challenge of integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service,” she read from the Permanent Secretary’s address.


She acknowledged that while the Ministry had been operating with anti-corruption principles informally, the official inauguration of ACTU marks a new chapter of structured vigilance. She further stated that the Ministry will provide ACTU with the necessary resources and institutional backing to function effectively. “Integrity is not optional; it is the soul of public service, and we are committed to protecting it,” she concluded.


Representing the ICPC Chairman, (Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu), Mr. Kayode Kupolati, Director of the Corruption Monitoring and Evaluation Division, delivered a goodwill message, commending the Ministry for aligning with the national anti-corruption strategy. He underscored the importance of ACTU as an internal accountability mechanism established to promote ethical practices and compliance with public service standards.


He outlined the critical responsibilities of ACTU, which include:

1. Periodic sensitization and ethical training for staff.

2. Systemic reviews to identify and mitigate corruption risks.

3. Operational risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities.

4. Enforcement and monitoring of the Ministry’s code of ethics.

5. Oversight of budget implementation processes.

6. Coordination of ethics and integrity initiatives.

7. Conduct of preliminary investigations where necessary.


Mr. Kupolati emphasized that ACTU serves as a complementary support system to management, working under the direct oversight of the Permanent Secretary, and not in competition. He called on the Ministry to support the Unit with adequate resources, office space, and involvement in relevant decision-making processes, in line with government circulars.


“I congratulate the newly appointed ACTU members. Discharge your duties with integrity, professionalism, and courage. The ICPC remains committed to supporting you as partners in promoting accountability,” he said.

In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Anita Odeh, the newly inducted Chairman of the ACTU, expressed sincere appreciation to the Permanent Secretary, ICPC, and the Ministry’s leadership for the trust and responsibility bestowed on her and the team.


She pledged to lead with transparency, encourage teamwork, and ensure that ACTU delivers on its core mandate. She emphasized the need for unity and mutual respect in achieving the Unit’s objectives, and assured all stakeholders of the committee’s unwavering dedication.


“On behalf of the newly inducted members, I want to thank the ICPC and the Ministry’s leadership for this opportunity. We promise to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and service. May God guide us all,” she concluded.


The ceremony ended with the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to ACTU members by the ICPC legal officer, followed by a group photograph featuring the ICPC delegation, the Ministry’s representative, and the newly inducted ACTU team.


Moses Odogwu

ACIPRO 


For: Director, Public Relations & Protocol Department 

Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation

Radio House, Abuja