Musa Aliyu, chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has urged Nigerians to join the commission in the fight against corruption in the country.

Mr Aliyu said that collective efforts against corruption could create a nation where transparency and accountability were prioritised and could lead to sustainable development and a better quality of life for all citizens.

He made the remarks at an interactive session organised to commemorate the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day on Monday in Ile-Ife, Osun.

The event was organised by ICPC in collaboration with Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife

The chairman spoke on the theme “Uniting With Youth Against Corruption, Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”

Mr Aliyu, represented by Hafeez Hassan, the Osun ICPC resident anti-corruption commissioner, said that corruption was undermining societal progress and must be tamed.

According to him, corruption is affecting economic development, good governance and also hindering the realisation of collective aspirations.

“The youths have indispensable roles in driving the needed change, promoting transparency and building a future deeply rooted in integrity.

“Nigerian youths need to utilise their immense abilities to tackle the menace and build a corrupt-free nation with their energy, creativity, innovative mindset and ideas.

“Young people can disrupt the norm and advocate for transparency and accountability, especially from public and government officials.

“By fostering a culture of integrity and actively participating in governance, the youth can pave the way for a brighter future where ethical practices prevail and corruption is no longer tolerated.

“The youths must make a united stance in their commitment to eradicate corruption and build a nation that thrives on ethical values and principles,” he said.

Earlier, John Okeniyi, the chief medical director, OAUTHC, said that corruption must be fought to a standstill for the country to move forward.

Mr Okeniyi said that all forms of corruption must be stopped through the collective effort of all Nigerians.

Also, the state chief judge, Justice Oyebola Adepele-Ojo, commended the ICPC on their effort in the fight against corruption in the country.

Mr Adepele-Ojo, represented by Justice Yinka Afolabi, a judge in the state, urged the youths “to be faithful to whatever they lay their hands upon and say no to corruption.”

Delivering his lecture, Ibrahim Bello, Chairman, ACTU OAUTHC, urged Nigerians to kick against corruption in ministries, department and agencies of government.

(NAN)