The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening corruption-prevention mechanisms in Nigeria’s transportation sector.

ICPC chair Musa Aliyu (SAN) made the commitment, according to a statement on Tuesday by the commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey.

Mr Aliyu spoke as he received the corps marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The ICPC chairman emphasised that transportation played a pivotal role in national development and public safety, noting that vehicles were frequently used to perpetrate crimes.

Mr Aliyu underscored the need for stronger collaboration between the ICPC, FRSC, and other law enforcement bodies to promote safer roads, greater accountability, and a more efficient national economy.

The ICPC boss commended the FRSC for its recent innovations, particularly the contactless driver’s licence processing system, which significantly reduced corruption risks by minimising unnecessary human interaction.

He also lauded the introduction of the Premium Driver’s Licence Service, noting that improved service timelines have enhanced public trust.

Mr Aliyu further reiterated ICPC’s readiness to support the strengthening of the FRSC’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).

He stressed that internal controls and early intervention remained vital in curbing unethical practices across public institutions.

The ICPC boss added that members of staff of the commission, including official drivers, would benefit from FRSC-led training on safe driving practices and proper road usage.

He therefore directed relevant departments within the commission to partner with the FRSC on joint sensitisation programmes to promote safety and integrity.

Earlier in his remarks, the corps marshal described the FRSC as Nigeria’s foremost agency for road regulation and safety.

He highlighted several ongoing reforms designed to improve service delivery, including the corps’ capacity to produce up to 25,000 driver’s licences daily, supported by enhanced data-protection measures to prevent identity-related fraud.

Mr Mohammed also explained that the newly introduced FRSC contactless licence renewal platform reduced physical interaction, sped up processing, and minimised corruption.

He outlined other innovations, including Standard and Premium Driver’s License Options and an Enhanced National Vehicle Identification System (NVIS) for faster vehicle information retrieval.

He said the innovation included an improved passenger manifest system, designed to strengthen commuter safety and emergency response.

In his closing remarks, the commission’s secretary, Clifford Oparaodu, commended the FRSC for its reforms.

Mr Oparaodu expressed confidence that the collaboration between the organisations would continue to advance integrity and transparency in the nation’s transport and public service sectors.

(NAN)