The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Aliyu, SAN, has asserted that despite being the first set of people to feel the impacts of corruption in society, they still hold the keys to innovative solutions and transformative leadership.
Welcoming participants at a one-day workshop for women and youth on corruption prevention, with the theme: “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption”, held at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja on Thursday, Aliyu said it was imperative for women and youth to play more active role in the fight against corruption and other social vices in Nigeria.
According to him, the fact that women and youth disproportionately experience effects of corruption in society as such engaging them in the fight against corruption was essential.
“By engaging women and youth, our over-arching objective is for our anti-corruption efforts to become more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable, leading to enhanced credibility, increased public support, innovative solutions, long-term impact and, of course, a more just and equitable society for Nigerians,” the ICPC chairman said.
While further advocating for involvement of women and youth in the battle against corruption, Aliyu called for united voice and resources to drive meaningful change in the society.
“By uniting our voices and resources, we can amplify our impact and drive meaningful change in our communities. Engaging women and young people in this battle is essential, as they are often the first to feel the effects of corruption, yet they hold the keys to innovative solutions and transformative leadership,” he submitted.
Speaking on the conference, Dr Aliyu said it was put together as a pivotal event dedicated to empower women and young people, who he described as two key groups in the fight against corruption.
According to him, “Today’s workshop is not just an event; it is a crucial platform that aims to highlight the pivotal roles that women and youth play in the fight against corruption.
“Today’s workshop stands as a pillar of public engagement, fully aligned with the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act of 2000, the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028.”
Dr. Aliyu informed that the anti-corruption commission was committed to leveraging technology for mobilisation, building inclusive coalitions and empowering marginalised voices to foster a more just and equitable society.
He then enjoined participants to participate actively in the panel discussions that follow, submitting that their contributions would be “invaluable in shaping our collective efforts and formulating actionable recommendations to be captured in our communique”.
In her speech at the event, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, said the mist vulnerable in the society, including women, children and the marginalized communities, bore the heaviest burden of corruption in the society.
According to her, “It is for their sake, and the future of our beloved country, that we must remain resolute in our efforts to combat this scourge.”
She added that, “As we gather today, let us reflect on the words of our elders: ‘It takes a village to raise a child’. In the same vein, it takes the collective will of the entire nation to defeat corruption. We cannot leave this battle to government agencies alone.”
Tinubu asserted that the fight against corruption required active participation of civil society, the private sector and most importantly the youth, adding that, “the vibrancy, creativity and determination of our youth are invaluable assets in this struggle.”
The First Lady then charged women and youth to be at the forefront of the fight against corruption in Nigeria, saying that, “We must move beyond the desire to have our voices heard and step into roles where our actions can make a difference. It is time for us to take our place as leaders, advocates, and reformers.
“The challenges we face today—whether they be in schools, workplaces, or our communities—call for our courage and determination. We must work towards creating safe spaces for our sisters and daughters, ensuring that their dignity is upheld and their rights protected.”
The First Lady, who lamented the growing issue of sexual exploitation in educational institutions and workplaces in the country, declared that, “this menace not only violates the rights of women but also threatens the moral fabric of our society.
“As female leaders, legislators, and advocates, we must use our influence to push for legislation and policies that address these injustices head-on. A society that respects and values the contributions of women will undoubtedly flourish.”
While commending the ICPC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to the cause of anti-corruption, Tinubu said that the Commission’s efforts in fostering collaborations with other anti-corruption agencies, civil society, and the private sector had been pivotal in advancing this agenda.
“I am confident that under the capable leadership of the Honourable Chairman, the ICPC will continue to make great strides in this fight,” she said.
The one-day conference brought together leaders, activists, policymakers and community members to address the unique challenges women and youth face in combating corruption.
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