Director General of National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA), Mr. Mustapha Habib Ahmed had approved the creation of the Transparency Unit (ACTU) in the Agency in conformity with the federal government’s policy in the fight against corruption and standards by the ICPC.
This was contained in a statement by NEMA’s Head, Press and Public Relations, Mr. Manzo Ezekiel on Wednesday in Abuja.
TheFact Nigeria gathered that a team from the Independent Corrupt Practices and related offences Commission, (ICPC) inaugurated the ACTU at the NEMA headquarters in Abuja.
ICPC Chairman, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye who was represented by Ms Lasisi Mutiat appealed to all MDAs to support anti-corruption fight in the public sector.
The Director General said it had become imperative to have the functional anti-corruption unit in NEMA that was recognized by the ICPC.
He said: “There was an inaugurated ACTU in the Agency in 2014 for the first time, the tenure which ended in 2017. Since then, the existence of ACTU in the Agency was not recognized by the Independent Corrupt practices and other related offences Commission as it was not established as statutorily required.
“Upon assumption of office and having been informed of the mandate of ACTU in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), it became paramount for me to ensure that this inauguration takes place as quickly as possible.”
Mr. Habib said: “The collective fight against corruption cannot be overemphasized,” and that “this is no wonder the ICPC through its mandate thought it wise to establish ACTUs in the MDAs.”
He also said: “Though it is common knowledge that the fight against corruption in MDAs through ACTU and generally, is financially related, that is only an aspect of it. It involves ensuring that the systems of the public MDAs work efficiently and effectively as appropriate, as well as ensuring ethical standards and compliance within the workplace. Enlightenment of the workforce on corruption related matters, monitoring of budget for effective outcome are also encompassed in this fight.”
He congratulated members of the newly inaugurated anti-corruption unit and enjoined them to take their “responsibilities with all seriousness being a key machinery to ensure the proper functioning of NEMA.”
