Kehinde Fajobi
The World Bank has identified inaccuracies in Nigeria’s federal data systems as a significant obstacle to fiscal transparency and the fight against corruption.
Speaking at the AGORA Policy conversation on anti-corruption in Abuja, Senior Bank Official Debby Isa, representing the World Bank Country Director, Dr. Ndiamé Diop, highlighted the issue.
“We talk about transparency, but to achieve transparent reports, you need accurate and reliable data. Right now, the data system involves numerous manual processes that allow for leakages, long compromising fiscal transparency,” Isa stated.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Adele Jinadu criticised Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategies, describing them as fragmented and insufficient.
“Adopting a ‘watch night man’ approach will not address Nigeria’s entrenched corruption. Without a holistic approach, efforts will amount to wasted time,” he said.
Jinadu lamented the systemic nature of corruption and the erosion of public trust in institutions.
“We are dealing with a toxic environment where corruption pervades every institution. No matter the reforms, corruption is ultimately about morality. Our leaders consistently act contrary to the laws they pledge to uphold,” he added.
He called for integrity and accountability among political actors while urging institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau to fulfil their oversight roles.
“The message is clear: eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. Let the sentinels on the watchtower remain awake,” Jinadu emphasised.
Representing EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, Mrs. Adejoke Liman, Director of Policy and Research, outlined challenges in combating corruption, including public cynicism, the insecurity of tenure for agency heads, and difficulties prosecuting high-profile cases.
“Corruption remains a huge enterprise involving theft of public resources at all levels of government. Public skepticism and the ease with which public funds are siphoned without warning systems hinder the fight,” Liman said.
She revealed that recovered funds are now being used to support social investment initiatives, such as student loans and consumer credit schemes.
“Funds recovered by the Commission are financing student loans and consumer credit schemes, both of which can reduce criminal tendencies among vulnerable groups,” she explained.
AGORA Chairperson Ojobo Ode Atuluku stressed the importance of sustaining anti-corruption efforts irrespective of political changes.
“Anti-corruption must remain on the radar. The message is as relevant today as ever,” Atuluku said.
She reaffirmed AGORA Policy’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and urged stakeholders to adopt innovative, tailored approaches to tackle corruption.