In a renewed effort to enhance transparency and accountability, the 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).
Addressing the audience during the inaugural ceremony, the Director of Human Resource Management, Mrs. Ijeoma Idika, representing the Permanent Secretaries of both Ministries, emphasized that the induction of the newly appointed members of ACTU is a crucial step in upholding the mandate outlined by the ICPC – which aims to promote transparency, accountability, and combat corruption within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The highlight of the event was the induction of twelve members into the new ACTU. Mrs. Idika underscored the significance of the Anti-Corruption Unit, stating, “It serves as the ICPC’s representative within the Ministries, playing a vital role in fostering a transparent and accountable workforce essential for maintaining a sanitized and efficient work environment.”
She further elaborated on the Ministry of Solid Minerals’ mandate to develop the Mineral Sector, a pivotal avenue for diversifying the country’s revenue streams and enhancing the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP). She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among staff members to fulfill their designated roles with unwavering commitment and adherence to ethical standards in the execution of their duties.
Mrs. Idika also highlighted that the ACTU within the Ministries was initially 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 Systems Study and Review Department, ICPC, Mr. Olusegun Adigun, FSI, emphasized 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 significant moment during 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.
