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By Chinelo Obogo
In an ongoing effort to combat corruption and strengthen governance, Nigeria will commemorate the 2024 United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) with a series of events.
The Inter-Agency Task Team (IATT) and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) who are the organisers of the programme, said that these activities aim to unite citizens and institutions in the fight against corruption.
This year’s commemoration with theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” will feature events such as school debates, rallies, sensitisation campaigns, and a symposium in Abuja showcasing the performances of anti-corruption agencies (ACAs) and law enforcement agencies (LEAs).
Highlighting the significance of the event, RoLAC Programme Manager, Dr. Emmanuel Uche, stated, “Corruption undermines democracy, hampers economic development, and destabilizes governance. Through coordinated efforts like these, we aim to emphasize the role of every citizen and institution in combating corruption and building a more transparent society.”
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The RoLAC Programme, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), supports Nigeria’s compliance with international anti-corruption standards like the UNCAC. By facilitating activities under the IATT platform, the program strengthens coordination among ACAs, civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, and the media.
This year marks 20 years of Nigeria’s participation in the UNCAC, highlighting progress such as the enactment of key laws, including the Asset Recovery and Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act 2022 and the AML/CFT/CPF Prohibition Act 2022.
The organisers said that for the first time, commemorative workshops will complement national events, expanding the reach of anti-corruption messages and that the activities are designed to create awareness about the social, political, and economic impacts of corruption while promoting accountability and transparency.
“The symposium will serve as a national platform for stakeholders to present performance reports, discuss opportunities for collaboration, and outline steps to overcome challenges in the anti-corruption landscape. RoLAC’s logistics support includes branded materials, media coverage, and accommodation for participants and speakers, ensuring widespread engagement.
“As Nigeria prepares to reflect on its anti-corruption journey, we call on citizens, organizations, and government agencies to join the fight against corruption, making transparency and accountability the cornerstones of national progress,” Uche said.
