By Steve Agbota
To foster ethical practices and integrity within the public sector, the Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) via a strategic training lecture on transparency and accountability in public service.
The event, which was held recently at the Command headquarters, drew officers from various units, as well as representatives from the ICPC and the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).
In his welcome address, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, acknowledged the vital role of ICPC and ACTU in promoting transparency and stated that the Customs has established robust mechanisms to detect and discipline corrupt officers. “Discipline, transparency, and accountability are non-negotiable values in our operations,” he remarked.
The session was introduced by Assistant Comptroller Owoniyi, Coordinator of ACTU in Customs Zone A, who gave a brief preamble and reaffirmed the unit’s dedication to building an ethical culture within the Service.
Mrs. Mary Omonoyan, Guest Speaker from ICPC’s Department of Public Enlightenment and Education, delivered a compelling lecture on the necessity of transparency and accountability in public offices.
She emphasised that public trust is built on openness, and that ethical behaviour is key to efficient governance.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director in charge of operations in the Lagos office of ICPC, Dr Florence Bari addressed the far-reaching effects of corruption in the public sector, with particular focus on lateness to duty and unethical practices in public procurement.
She urged officers to serve with integrity, stressing that corruption undermines public service delivery and weakens institutional credibility.
The lecture concluded with an interactive session, encouraging officers to share ideas and strategies for strengthening transparency within their departments.
This initiative reflects the shared commitment of Tin Can Island Port Command and ICPC to entrenching accountability and ethical standards in public service.