By Gbenga Nicholas, Abuja
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has launched its 2025 Management and Board Retreat in Calabar, Cross River State, with the aim of enhancing its operational efficiency and strategic impact in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against corruption.
The two-day retreat, which commenced on Tuesday, was officially declared open by the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN. In his opening remarks, Dr. Aliyu emphasized the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation in tackling corruption. He praised the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the administration’s dedication to anti-corruption continues to inspire the ICPC’s mission.
“The retreat provides us a chance to reflect on our progress and recalibrate our strategies for greater effectiveness,” Dr. Aliyu said. He highlighted focus areas including the Proceeds of Crime Act, 2022—specifically civil forfeiture and asset recovery—enhanced transparency, improved interdepartmental synergy, and ICT-driven innovation.
Key attendees included Honourable Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim of the Supreme Court; Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption; Hon. Kayode Moshood Akiolu, represented by Hon. Ifeanyi Mascot Ikwechegh from the House Committee on Anti-Corruption; and the Attorney General of Cross River State, Hon. Ededem Charles Ani.
Senator Udende commended the ICPC’s achievements in enforcement, public enlightenment, and systems review. “The ICPC remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework,” he said, pledging continued legislative support to enhance the Commission’s mandate in the face of evolving corruption threats.
Hon. Ikwechegh reinforced the National Assembly’s support, advocating for robust legal and financial backing to strengthen the Commission’s capacity not just for enforcement, but also for prevention and reform.
A key highlight of the retreat was a presentation by Justice Emmanuel Agim titled “Empowering the ICPC: Leveraging Civil Forfeiture and Asset Recovery under the Proceeds of Crime Act, 2022.” Other goodwill messages were delivered by Hon. Ededem Charles Ani and retired High Court Judge and ICPC Board Member, Hon. Justice Adamu Bello.
