ICPC urge women, youth to take active role in fight against corruption
By Chizoba Njaka
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), has urged women and youth to take more active role in the fight against corruption and other social vices in Nigeria.
The ICPC Chairman, in his welcome address at a one-day workshop for women and youth on corruption prevention themed: “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption” held at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, highlighted that women and youth disproportionately experience the effects of corruption in society.
He stated that the Conference was put together as a pivotal event dedicated to empowering two key groups; women and young people in the fight against corruption stressing that “today’s workshop is not just an event but a crucial platform that aims to highlight the pivotal roles that women and youth play in the fight against corruption”.
In his words, “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 stressed that “the 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 noted that ICPC was committed to leveraging technology for mobilisation, building inclusive coalitions, and empowering marginalised voices to foster a more just and equitable society.
He further stated that “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 an unbiased and impartial society for Nigerians".
The ICPC boss also charged those attending the event to participate actively in the panel discussions that follow, as their contributions would be “invaluable in shaping our collective efforts and formulating actionable recommendations to be captured in our communique”.
Also in her speech, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said that when corruption thrives, “it is the most vulnerable among women, children, and marginalized communities; who bear the heaviest burden. 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 stated, “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”.
The wife of the President reaffirmed that , “It is a fight that requires the active participation of civil society, the private sector, and most importantly the youth. The vibrancy, creativity, and determination of our youth are invaluable assets in this struggle.," she noted.
She charged the Women and youth to be at the forefront of this fight against corruption in the country, stressing, “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 in schools, workplaces, or in 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” she remarked.
Senator Tinubu lamented the growing issue of sexual exploitation in our educational institutions and workplaces adding that “this menace not only violates the rights of women but also threatens the moral fabric of our society.
She reminded them that, "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”.
Senator Tinubu also urged the young ones to see the event “as a call to action. "You have the knowledge, energy, and innovation needed to lead the charge against corruption. The challenges we face are complex and dynamic, but so too is your potential to drive change”.
She disclosed that the National and State Assemblies are working tirelessly to update our laws to address new trends in corruption adding that it was up to them to ensure that these laws translate into real change through advocacy, transparency, and accountability.
While commending the ICPC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to the cause of anti-corruption, she said that the Commission’s efforts in fostering collaborations with other anti-corruption agencies, civil society, and the private sector have been pivotal in advancing the agenda, noting with delight, “I am confident that under the capable leadership of the Honourable Chairman, the ICPC would continue to make great strides in the fight”.
The conference featured leaders, activists, policymakers, and community members to address the unique challenges women and youth face in combating corruption.
However, through workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the conference aimed at equipping participants with tools, strategies, and support networks to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within their communities and institutions.