Nigeria’s Interior Minister Highlights Corruption as Major Threat to Security

The Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that corruption and corrupt practices significantly contribute to insecurity in Nigeria.

During a visit to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on April 16, 2024, the Minister stressed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Interior and anti-corruption agencies to combat this issue.

Tunji-Ojo’s visit to the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu, SAN, aimed to strengthen ties between the two entities and address the role of corruption in Nigeria’s security challenges.

The Minister highlighted the need for proactive measures and prevention, rather than merely reacting to criminal activities.

According to Tunji-Ojo, the Ministry of Interior is responsible for enhancing internal security, and corruption poses a significant threat to achieving this goal.

He suggested that a strategic relationship between the ministry and the ICPC could help block loopholes and deter corruption.

The ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Aliyu, echoed the importance of combating corruption to create a secure environment for investments and improve the country’s reputation.

He emphasized that the commission has been working to fulfill its mandate within the confines of the law and welcomed the opportunity for collaboration with the Ministry of Interior.

Both parties agreed on the need for capacity building and knowledge transfer to reduce errors and improve the performance of government officials.

The Interior Minister also proposed the establishment of a functional unit within the ICPC to review and approve decisions before they are implemented, as a way to reduce corruption and improve efficiency.

Nigeria’s Interior Minister has called for a united effort in fighting corruption, which he believes is a significant threat to the country’s security.

By collaborating with anti-corruption agencies like the ICPC, the government aims to create a more secure and transparent environment for its citizens and potential investors.