By Isaac Aregbesola
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has emphasised that embracing technology was vital in combating corruption in the country.
ICPC Secretary, Mr Clifford Oparaodu, represented by Mr Demola Bakare, Acting Director of Public Enlightenment and Education, made this statement at the inauguration of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard on Tuesday in Abuja.
“Embracing technology can be a game-changer in our fight against corruption. We are living in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, and Nigerians youths have proven themselves adept at utilising these tools.
“We must harness the power of technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.
“Mobilising our coding skills, data analysis abilities and social media prowess, we can expose corrupt practices, track public spending and facilitate citizen participation in anti-corruption initiatives,” he said
Oparaodu highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, with 60 per cent under 30, as a crucial factor in shaping the nation’s future.
He emphasised that young people possessed the passion, energy, and creativity necessary to tackle corruption.
To achieve this, he advocated for empowering and involving youths in the fight against corruption, leveraging technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.
“We need to establish platforms where young Nigerians from diverse background can come together, share ideas, and work collectively towards a corruption–free Nigeria.
“Civil society organisations, academic institutions and youth led initiatives should collaborate to create opportunities to become anti-corruption champions,” he said.
He expressed the belief that the youth of Nigeria had a pivotal role to play in the fight against corruption.
“By educating ourselves, leveraging technology, engaging in politics of development, and fostering collaboration, we can effect real change in our society.
“The establishment of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard is a testament to our commitment to integrity and accountability.
“Through this platform, you will have opportunity to educate your peers, raise awareness about the danger of corruption, and advocate for transparency in all spheres of life, especially among yourselves and in your various institutions,” he said.
He urged the students to take a wave of change and collaborate with the commission, which would provide you with the necessary tools and guidance to effectively champion the cause.
“Together, let us forge a path towards a future where integrity thrives and corruption is a relic of the past.
“I look forward to witnessing the impactful initiatives that will emerge from these vanguards and the positive changes you will bring about,” he said.
He said by implementing these strategies, Nigerian youths could drive meaningful change and create a society where integrity thrived, and corruption eradicated
