The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has charged members of the newly inaugurated National Youth Service Corps Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (NYSC ACTU) to uphold objectivity, confidentiality and the highest ethical standards in carrying out their duties.
The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, gave the charge during the inauguration and induction of the unit’s 11 members at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja recently.
Represented by Mr Olusegun Adigun, Aliyu described the inauguration as a significant step towards strengthening internal accountability, promoting ethical conduct and institutionalising anti- corruption practices within the NYSC.
He clarified that the ACTU was established to complement the NYSC management’s efforts, not to compete with it or interfere in administrative matters.
According to him, the creation of ACTUs across ministries, departments and agencies is part of broader efforts to reinforce anti-corruption mechanisms within Nigeria’s public service.
“The scale of NYSC operations makes transparency, accountability and strong internal controls essential to maintaining public confidence and safeguarding public resources,” Aliyu said.
He urged the newly inducted members to organise sensitisation and training programmes for staff, monitor budget implementation and review relevant operational activities to promote transparency and accountability.
The ICPC chairman also called on NYSC management to provide the necessary support for the effective functioning of the unit in line with government guidelines, saying such backing would help boost public confidence in the Scheme.
He advised the ACTU members to perform their duties with diligence, professionalism and utmost confidentiality.
Speaking at the event, the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, reaffirmed the Scheme’s commitment to accountability, integrity and zero tolerance for corruption.
Represented by the Director of Legal Services, Barrister Chris Ogar, the Director General described the fight against corruption as a collective responsibility.
He commended the ACTU for raising awareness about ethical conduct and identifying areas vulnerable to corrupt practices.
“As you assume this responsibility, I urge you to discharge your duties with integrity, courage, impartiality and strict adherence to extant rules and regulations,” Nafiu said.
The Director -General urged the members to lead by example, promote compliance and block loopholes that could encourage unethical practices.
