The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has inaugurated its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), reaffirming its commitment to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service.
The official induction ceremony, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Radio House, Abuja, marks a significant milestone in the Ministry’s efforts to institutionalize ethical standards across its operations.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, the Director of the National Archives of Nigeria, Dr. Evelyn Odigboh, welcomed the ICPC team and stakeholders. She underscored the Ministry’s appreciation for the ICPC’s ongoing support and partnership.
“This is more than a symbolic event. It is a formal declaration of our readiness to confront corruption with determination and commitment,” she stated, adding that ACTU will now serve as a structured mechanism for monitoring ethical conduct within the Ministry.
She further assured that the Ministry will equip the Unit with the resources and institutional support necessary to ensure its effectiveness. “Integrity is not optional; it is the soul of public service, and we are committed to protecting it,” she emphasized.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, Mr. Kayode Kupolati, Director of the Corruption Monitoring and Evaluation Division, praised the Ministry’s decision to align with the national anti-corruption strategy.
He outlined ACTU’s core responsibilities, which include:
Regular sensitization and ethics training for staff,
Systemic and operational risk reviews,
Monitoring compliance with the Ministry’s Code of Ethics,
Overseeing budget implementation,
Coordinating integrity-driven initiatives,
And conducting preliminary investigations when necessary.
Mr. Kupolati emphasized that ACTU functions as an internal watchdog under the guidance of the Permanent Secretary, working with management and not against it. He urged the Ministry to provide ACTU with adequate resources, operational independence, and access to key decision-making processes, in line with federal guidelines.
“I congratulate all inducted members of ACTU. Perform your duties with integrity, courage, and professionalism. The ICPC will continue to support you as key partners in promoting a transparent public service,” he stated.
Newly inducted ACTU Chairperson, Mrs. Anita Odeh, in her vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary, the ICPC, and Ministry leadership for entrusting the team with such a vital role.
“We are committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and teamwork. With unity and integrity, we will fulfill our mandate,” she said, pledging to lead the team with diligence and uphold the values of the public service.
The event concluded with the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to ACTU members by an ICPC legal officer, followed by a ceremonial group photograph with the ICPC delegation, Ministry representatives, and the new ACTU team.