ICPC Educates Ministry of Works Staff on Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged staff of the Niger State Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability in the performance of their official duties.
The message was conveyed during a courtesy and enlightenment visit by the Commission to the Ministry, led by the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Niger State, Mr Kennedy Ebhotemen.
During the visit, Mr Ebhotemen stated that the ICPC’s mission is to foster a public service culture rooted in honesty and discipline, stressing that public officers must “keep away from corruption in all its forms.”
He highlighted that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development plays a critical role in the physical development of the state, managing projects that directly impact the lives of citizens.
According to him, the strategic importance of the Ministry makes it crucial for all staff members to act ethically and to execute their duties with the highest level of integrity and professionalism.
Mr Ebhotemen explained that corruption hampers development and erodes public trust, reaffirming that the ICPC remains dedicated to eradicating corrupt practices through education, prevention, and enforcement.
He also pointed out that the Commission’s mandate includes arresting, investigating, and prosecuting corruption-related offences, in addition to providing ongoing training and enlightenment to public officers.
The ICPC Commissioner advised that companies and contractors involved in government projects should be closely monitored to ensure adherence to contract terms and to ensure value for public funds.
He stressed that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must strengthen their internal oversight mechanisms to monitor project progress and promote transparency during procurement and implementation.
Mr Ebhotemen called on staff to see themselves as custodians of public trust and to resist any temptation that may compromise their professional ethics or the Ministry’s image.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Quantity Surveyor Hassan Baba Estu, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the ICPC team for the enlightenment session and ongoing support in promoting integrity in public service.
He affirmed that the Ministry remains committed to transparency, accountability, and effective service delivery, which are vital for good governance and sustainable development.
Quantity Surveyor Estu underscored that the Ministry will continue collaborating with the ICPC to enhance staff capacity, strengthen internal controls, and foster ethical conduct in all official dealings.
He also urged the ICPC to regularly invite staff from the Ministry to participate in its anti-corruption workshops and training programmes to deepen their understanding of ethical behaviour in public service.
The Permanent Secretary assured that the Ministry will keep monitoring the progress of all projects completed under its supervision to ensure quality delivery and value for public funds.
The event included interactive discussions where ICPC officials engaged with the Ministry’s staff on practical measures for preventing corruption, improving transparency, and ensuring adherence to due process in project execution.
