Customs, ICPC Forge Stronger Alliance Against Corruption with Management Sensitisation Programme
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has intensified its anti-corruption campaign through a sensitisation programme aimed at boosting the operational effectiveness of its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).
The one-day event, held in Abuja, brought together senior management staff of the Service to deliberate on strategies for strengthening internal controls, instilling ethical practices, and reinforcing the fight against corruption within the organisation.
Declaring the programme open, Deputy Comptroller-General Greg Itotoh, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stressed that the Service’s battle against corruption is a long-standing commitment.
He described the sensitisation exercise as part of ongoing measures to fortify accountability mechanisms and embed a culture of integrity throughout the institution.
“Having you here today demonstrates our resolve to fight corruption. Being with us further encourages us and strengthens that desire to enforce our anti-corruption initiatives that we have put in place,” Itotoh said.
He added that the knowledge gained from the programme would be transmitted to other officers, thereby fostering wider awareness and inspiring more effective service delivery across commands nationwide.
In his remarks, the ICPC Chairman, Musa Aliyu, represented by Olusegun Adigun, lauded the Customs Service for prioritising integrity and initiating the programme. He warned that corruption continues to pose one of the gravest challenges to Nigeria’s growth and governance.
“Corruption remains one of the greatest impediments to national development, eroding trust, stifling economic growth and diminishing the effectiveness of governance,” he noted.
“As we engage in today’s discourse, let us remember that every act of integrity contributes to a stronger, more transparent society. Let this workshop be a catalyst for a renewed commitment, innovation and proactive engagement in the fight against corruption,” Aliyu added.
The ICPC boss urged Customs officers to uphold ethical standards in the discharge of their duties and encouraged the management to sustain its support for ACTU’s activities, describing integrity as central to rebuilding society.
The programme featured insightful paper presentations, including “Understanding the ACTU Standing Order 2023” delivered by an ICPC official, and “Preventive Strategies in Combating Corruption in Public Institutions” presented by Richard Bello. The sessions underscored the importance of preventive approaches to misconduct, institutional reforms, and the need for stronger oversight in public service.
Bringing the event to a close, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba of the Customs Intelligence Unit expressed appreciation to ACTU for spearheading the initiative, reaffirming Customs’ determination to deepen its partnership with ICPC.
“We’re deeply grateful to the ACTU for initiating and championing this programme. Your relentless effort towards promoting accountability and good governance did not go unnoticed. Thank you for being the moral compass within our institution,” Oshoba said.
The sensitisation programme is part of broader reforms by the Nigeria Customs Service to align with international best practices, enhance transparency, and strengthen public trust in its operations.
