The importance of an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in the Mines and Steel sector cannot be overemphasised especially that the sector is a major driver of the economic diversification agenda of government; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. (Mrs) Oluwatoyin Akinlade has said, adding that the collaboration of the ministry with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) will facilitate the delivery of the sector’s set goals.
Dr Akinlade, who made the point during the inauguration of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) recently in Abuja, said the Unit is strategic especially in view of the current high expectations of the country from its Mines and Steel sector.
The Permanent Secretary, who was represented at the event by the Director, Artisanal and Small Scale Mining, Engr. Patrick Ojeka, expressed delight at the formal inauguration of the newly constituted Anti- Corruption and Transparency Monitoring Unit (ACTU) of the Ministry.
She acknowledged the strategic role being played by the ICPC in strengthening the ACTU and in putting the unit constantly on its toes across the Civil Service.
Dr Akinlade commended the ICPC for closely monitoring the effectiveness of ACTU as well as the Transparency and Integrity rating of the Sector.
She congratulated members of the newly constituted ACTU team of the ministry for being considered worthy of the important task, stating that the task is peculiar. She urged members to rededicate themselves and demonstrate exemplary conduct by living above board at all times.
She said: “What we are celebrating in this ministry today is the dawn of a new era, having successfully midwifed a brand-new ACTU team following the expiration of the three-year tenure of the outgoing team in March, 2021”.
The Acting Director Special Duties, Yisau Adepoju, said the event was an important occasion considering the fact that war against corruption constitutes one of the three cardinal pillars of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Administration. He said the occasion practically demonstrates the commitment of the ministry to the virtues of transparency, accountability and judicious utilization of public resources, which are necessary for success in the conduct of the government businesses.
Adepoju congratulated the management and staff of the ministry for being part of the process and identifying with the epoch-making event.
He welcomed the Chairman of the ICPC and the entire visiting ICPC team for being in support of the right course.
The Chairman Independent Corrupt Practice and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, charged the ministry with the mandate of supervising the growth and development of the national minerals for effective utilization and revenue generation for national growth. He said it is important for staff of the ministry to understand their responsibilities and live above board in order to propel the ministry to greater heights.
He said the ACTU needs the unalloyed support of the management to perform their duties and hoped for a continuous collaboration with the ministry in ensuring that Nigeria is rid of all vestiges of corruption for the benefit of the teeming population and generations yet unborn.
Mr. Christopher T. Warije, Head of ACTU on behalf of the newly reconstituted Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, said he is humbled by the mandate given to him and his colleagues to fly the flag of fight against corruption in the Ministry.
