The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has emphasized the pivotal role of Nigerian youths in combating corruption and promoting a transparent, accountable society.
This call was made during the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day event held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Mr. Cheikh Toure, highlighted the encouraging progress in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, citing findings from the organization’s latest national corruption survey.
“Our recent survey reveals a significant cultural shift. Seventy percent of Nigerians, including the youth, have refused to pay bribes on at least one occasion. This demonstrates a growing commitment to integrity. Furthermore, 42% of respondents refrained from bribery simply because it was ‘the right thing to do.’ Such moral courage forms the foundation for a corruption-free society,” Toure stated.
The survey also showed a drop in the negative consequences for refusing bribes, from 49% in 2019 to 38% in 2023, and an increase in the willingness to report bribery incidents, rising from 3.6% in 2019 to 8.6% in 2023.
Toure explained that the theme for this year’s event, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” underscores the indispensable role of young people in fostering good governance and sustainable development.
“Youth are not just victims of corruption; they are powerful agents of change
“Across Nigeria, young people are championing accountability, promoting ethical behaviour, and leveraging technology such as blockchain and artificial intelligence to enhance transparency. The fight against corruption requires the collective effort of all stakeholders—women, youth, civil society organizations, the private sector, and policymakers.”
Toure further urged policymakers and institutions to include young people in decision-making processes while encouraging youth to demand accountability and lead by example in their communities.
On youth and justice system challenges, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, lamented the challenges young Nigerians face within the justice system.
He noted the high number of incarcerated youth, many of whom are held without trial for extended periods.
“Our goal is to create a system that protects, supports, and empowers every young Nigerian. Too many young people are victims of systemic delays in accessing justice, often leading to their involvement in criminal activities. We are committed to addressing these challenges”, Olawande said.
Building Youth Capacity For Change
The Head of the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), Jane Onwumere, stressed the importance of equipping young people with the tools and knowledge necessary to fight corruption effectively.
“To shape a positive future, we must provide youth with the resources and platforms they need,” she said. “Young people must educate themselves about the detrimental effects of corruption, demand access to information, and promote transparency and accountability in their communities”, she stressed
Highlights
The event, organized by UNODC in collaboration with Nigeria’s Ministry of Youth Development, featured a panel discussion, dance drama, and poetry performances.
The gathering underscored the importance of empowering youth to shape a corruption-free society, emphasizing that their active participation can help build a more just and equitable future.
PIAK
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