The Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy, supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme, held a review and revalidation session in Awka to assess the first phase of the initiative and draft a roadmap for 2024-2028.
The strategy aims to strengthen government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to eliminate corruption and enhance operational efficiency. The event brought together permanent secretaries and key government officials to evaluate progress made during the 2019-2023 phase and fine-tune the next stage.
Dr. Ada Chidi-Igbokwe of RoLAC highlighted that the first phase focused on improving service delivery rather than targeting individuals, emphasizing the importance of enacting and enforcing laws to close corruption loopholes. She explained that the initiative aims to institutionalize accountability and transparency in government operations.
The Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Adebayo Ojeinka, noted that the strategy is legally backed and stressed the need for adequate funding to raise public awareness on accessing government services without resorting to corrupt practices.
Dr. Martin Agbili, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, emphasized the strategy’s extension to local government areas, ensuring a culture of zero tolerance for corruption at all levels. Dr. Nwabufo Nwankwo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, confirmed that the strategy aligns with the state government’s broader policies.
The Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Services (ABS), Mr. Chris Molokwu, was among the notable attendees.