The collaboration between the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) aims to tackle corruption and illicit financial activities by leveraging technology.
Musa Aliyu, the ICPC Chairman, recently convened a meeting with NITDA’s leadership, stressing the need to integrate innovative technology in anti-corruption efforts and identifying strategic areas to deploy such advancements.
The discussions resulted in plans to establish a joint committee, signifying an ongoing partnership between ICPC and NITDA. This joint effort underscores their dedication to continual digital transformation, essential for a proactive stance in combatting corruption in the country.
The initial partnership between these agencies was initiated by former ICPC Chairman Prof Bolaji Owasanoye in 2021, designed to bolster the fight against corruption and illicit financial practices.
In September 2022, Owasanoye, representing ICPC, collaborated with NITDA, supported by the Ford Foundation, West Africa, to introduce three demo hacking solutions named “The Hackaton.” These solutions were proposed as digital measures to address corruption in government school feeding programs, chosen from seven presented innovations during the Illicit Financial Flows Hackathon organized by the commission.
Azuka Ogugua, the ICPC spokesperson, revealed the latest development, stating that the current ICPC head, Aliyu, visited NITDA to initiate a new phase in anti-corruption efforts, focusing on a technology-driven approach to fulfill ICPC’s mandates of enforcement, prevention, and public mobilization against corruption.
Ogugua quoted Aliyu as saying, “With advancements in all sectors, adopting the best technologies in fighting and preventing corruption is crucial. Our partnership with NITDA is aimed at exploring support in digitising ICPC, enhancing transparency, accountability, and effectiveness, thereby boosting public confidence.
“Fighting corruption without technology is unthinkable at this stage. Our primary responsibilities at ICPC include preventing corruption, investigating, and prosecuting. Technology is essential for us to operate effectively.”
On his part, NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Abdullahi expressed readiness to assist the ICPC, sharing insights on NITDA’s Digital Transformation Playbook.
He emphasised that digital transformation is a continuous journey, highlighting the importance of building capabilities for sustainable results.
