The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has called on stakeholders in both government and private establishments to work towards eradicating corruption from the country.
NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji made the call on Monday while speaking on the occasion of the United Nations International Anti-Corruption Day in Abuja.
Dr. Orji noted that “corruption remains one of the most significant threats to our nation’s progress, and the extractive sector is no exception. The revenues generated from our natural resources should drive development and prosperity for all. However, corruption has often diverted these funds, undermining growth, stability, and the well-being of our citizens.”
He said “NEITI, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has been at the forefront of advocating for transparency and accountability in the extractive industries. Through rigorous audits, stakeholder engagement, and policy reforms, we have sought to foster an environment where openness prevails and corruption is curtailed.
“Yet, our work is far from complete. Today serves as a powerful reminder that we must redouble our efforts to confront corruption directly. NEITI remains resolute in advocating for comprehensive reforms, supporting anti-corruption initiatives, and reinforcing our partnerships with government agencies, civil society, and the private sector,” he said.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” highlights the crucial role young people play in fostering a society rooted in transparency, accountability, and ethical values.
He said “Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the change-makers of today. Their energy, innovation, and resolve make them formidable allies in the fight against corruption.
“We recognize that empowering young people with the tools, knowledge, and platforms to identify, report, and resist corrupt practices is pivotal. By nurturing a culture of integrity among our youth, we ensure that ethical values permeate every facet of our society.
“This theme calls for intergenerational collaboration—where the experience of today’s leaders merges with the energy of youth to build systems that uphold fairness and justice. Together, we can shape a future where leadership is defined by integrity, equity, and sustainable growth,” he said.
While stating that transparency is the foundation of NEITI’s mission, Dr, Orji said the agency was committed to delivering accurate and timely information on the management of revenues from Nigeria’s natural resources.
He added that “by promoting openness, we empower citizens to hold both government and industry actors accountable.”
