The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says strong collaboration with the media remains central to advancing Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, as it seeks to deepen transparency, accountability, and public trust in governance.
Speaking at the ICPC/Nigeria Union of Journalists Workshop on Effective Collaboration on Corruption Prevention held in Abuja, the ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, described the media as “one of the most powerful instruments in the fight against corruption,” stressing that journalists are not merely observers but “watchdogs, agenda-setters, and catalysts for reform.”
He noted that without a “vibrant, responsible, and ethical press,” the anti-corruption drive would be significantly weakened.
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Highlighting the Commission’s preventive strategy, Dr Aliyu disclosed that the ICPC has tracked about 950 projects across 16 states and the Federal Capital Territory valued at approximately ₦415 billion, in addition to projects under the Federal Ministry of Works worth over ₦21 trillion.
According to him, these interventions have uncovered abandoned projects, compelled contractors to return to site, and strengthened accountability, adding that “prevention remains the most effective and sustainable approach to combating corruption.”
Declaring the workshop open, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, underscored the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and countering misinformation.
He commended the ICPC leadership for repositioning the Commission as “a more proactive, transparent and impactful institution” within Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework.
Ndace stressed that in an era defined by “noise, misinformation and disinformation,” no modern leadership can succeed without strategic partnership with the media.
“The media, as the fourth estate, plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, promoting accountability and driving citizen participation,” he said, urging sustained engagement between public institutions and professional journalists.
He further distinguished trained journalists from unverified social media actors, emphasising the importance of “text, content and context” in responsible reporting.
According to him, professionalism in journalism remains vital to safeguarding public trust and preventing the spread of fake news.
Reaffirming government support, Ndace said public media institutions, including Voice of Nigeria, remain committed to amplifying narratives that promote integrity, transparency, and good governance globally.
“We will continue to partner with the ICPC and other stakeholders to ensure that the message of anti-corruption resonates not only within Nigeria but across the globe,” he stated.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Senator Emmanuel Udende, described corruption as a major obstacle to national development, warning that it erodes public trust, weakens institutions, and denies citizens access to essential services.
He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening legislative frameworks and enhancing its oversight functions to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance across the country.
In their remarks, the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali Mohammed Ali, and the Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration among government institutions, the media, and citizens in fostering a culture of integrity.
They also underscored the media’s critical role in corruption prevention, describing it as a powerful instrument for civic education, public sensitisation, and the promotion of accountability.