The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has identified corruption as a major obstacle to development and progress in the Niger Delta region.
The commission is urging youths to take an active stance against corruption to secure a better future.
Speaking at a workshop organized by Social Action Nigeria in Delta State, the Secretary to the ICPC, Mr. Clifford Oparaodu, emphasized the need for youth-driven action to combat corruption.
The workshop, themed “Youth Against Corruption: Mobilising for Behaviour Change, Whistleblowing and Social Development,” marked the inauguration of the Students Anti-Corruption Vanguard in ten tertiary institutions across Delta State.
Oparaodu commended the youth for their growing commitment to fighting corruption, stating, “The youth of this country, especially in the Niger Delta, have indeed risen against corruption and are determined to shape the future they desire. This event is a significant step toward fostering collective action against corruption.”
The initiative was supported by Social Action Development Integrated Centre, the African Centre for Media and Information Literacy and the MacArthur Foundation.
Whistleblower and anti-corruption advocate, Mr. Godwin Onyeacholem, encouraged students to be fearless in exposing corrupt practices, emphasizing that citizen participation is critical to achieving accountability.
“We cannot completely eradicate corruption in Nigeria, but we can significantly reduce it. The whistle-blowing policy is a tool to fight corruption, and it is the duty of every citizen to report corrupt practices.”
Students from institutions such as Dennis Osadebey University, University of Delta Agbor, Petroleum Training Institute Effurun, and College of Education (Technical) Asaba were present at the launch of the Students Anti-Corruption Vanguard.
The program aims to empower students to promote integrity, report corruption, and serve as change agents within their communities.
Oparaodu urged youths to remain steadfast in their fight against corruption, stressing that their efforts would play a pivotal role in transforming the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
“This launch represents not just a call to action but a declaration that our youth are ready to lead the charge for a better future.”
The Students Anti-Corruption Vanguard will work to mobilize young people in educational institutions across the state, fostering awareness and action against corruption at the grassroots level.
