The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), has urged women and youths to take a more active role in the fight against corruption and other social vices in the county.
Aliyu made the call in his address of welcome at a one-day workshop for women and youth on corruption prevention at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, on Thursday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference has as its theme: “Women and Youth Alliance Against Corruption”.
The ICPC boss said that women and the youth disproportionately experienced the effects of corruption in society, and urged them to rise to fight against it.
Aliyu stated that the conference was put together as a pivotal event dedicated to empowering two key groups, women and young people in the fight against corruption.
”Today’s workshop is not just an event; it is a crucial platform that aims to highlight the pivotal roles that women and the youth play in the fight against corruption.
”By uniting our voices and resources, we can amplify our impact and drive meaningful change in our communities.
”Engaging women and young people in this battle is essential, as they are often the first to feel the effects of corruption, yet they hold the keys to innovative solutions and transformative leadership,” he said.
Aliyu said further that the workshop stands as a pillar of public engagement, fully aligned with the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act of 2000, the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and the ICPC Strategic Action Plan 2024-2028.
“ICPC is committed to leveraging technology for mobilisation, building inclusive coalitions, and empowering marginalised voices to foster a more just and equitable society.
”By engaging women and youth, our over-arching objective is for our anti-corruption efforts to become more diverse, inclusive, and sustainable.
”It is also to enhanced credibility, increased public support, innovative solutions, long-term impact and, of course, a more just and equitable society for Nigerians,” he said.
In her address, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, wife of the President, said that when corruption thrives, the most vulnerable women, children, and marginalised communities bear the heaviest burden.
”It is for their sake, and the future of our beloved country, that we must remain resolute in our efforts to combat this scourge.
“As we gather today, let us reflect on the words of our elders: ‘It takes a village to raise a child;’ and in the same vein, it takes the collective will of the entire nation to defeat corruption.
“We cannot leave this battle to government agencies alone,” she said.
The President’s wife commended the ICPC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to the cause of anti-corruption.
The conference brings together leaders, activists, policymakers, and community members to address the unique challenges women and youth face in combating corruption.
Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the conference aims to equip participants with tools, strategies against corruption.
It also aims to support networks to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within their communities and institutions.