NEMA’s Director-General approves creation of Anti-Corruption, Transparency Unit

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Mustapha Habib Ahmed has approved the creation of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in the Agency line with the Federal Government’s policy in the fight against corruption and standards by the Independent Corrupt Practices and related offences Commission (ICPC).

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Agency’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mr Manzo Ezekiel in Abuja,

Speaking at the inauguration of the unit by a team from ICPC at NEMA headquarters in Abuja, Director-General Mustapha Habib Ahmed said it had become imperative to have a functional anti-corruption unit in NEMA that is recognized by the ICPC.

Mr Ahmed explained that “There was an inaugurated ACTU in the Agency in 2014 for the first time, the tenure which ended in 2017. Since then, the existence of ACTU in the Agency was not recognized by the Independent Corrupt practices and other related offences Commission as it was not established as statutorily required.  upon assumption of office and having been informed of the mandate of ACTU in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), it became paramount for me to ensure that this inauguration takes place as quickly as possible.”

The Director General of NEMA also noted that; “The collective fight against corruption cannot be overemphasized,,  this is no wonder the ICPC through its mandate thought it wise to establish ACTUs in the MDAs.

“Though it is common knowledge that the fight against corruption in MDAs through ACTU and generally, is financially related, that is only an aspect of it. It involves ensuring that the systems of the public MDAs work efficiently and effectively as appropriate, as well as ensuring ethical standards and compliance within the workplace. Enlightenment of the workforce on corruption-related matters, monitoring of budget for the effective outcome are also encompassed in this fight.”

 While congratulating members of the newly inaugurated anti-corruption unit, the Director-General urged them to take their responsibilities with all seriousness being key machinery to ensure the proper functioning of NEMA.

The Chairman of ICPC who was represented by Ms Lasisi Mutiat appealed to all MDAs to support the anti-corruption fight in the public sector.

PIAK