The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has commended Nigeria for making strides in the fight against corruption, noting that more citizens are rejecting corrupt practices and advocating for accountability.
During the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration in Abuja, the Country Representative of UNODC, Mr. Cheikh Toure, highlighted positive developments in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
Toure referenced a recent national corruption survey that revealed significant progress, with 70% of Nigerians, including youth, refusing to pay bribes on at least one occasion. He also noted a nearly threefold increase in formal procedures against corrupt public officials, indicating a growing culture of integrity and resistance to corruption in the country.
The UNODC Representative emphasized that while these advancements are promising, there remains a need to enhance integrity, transparency, and accountability in the public sector. He underscored the importance of empowering youth in combating corruption, highlighting the disproportionate impact of corruption on young people in areas such as education, healthcare, social development, and job opportunities.
Toure quoted Felipe Paullier, the Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, who highlighted the detrimental effects of corruption on young people and emphasized their role as agents of change.
Despite the challenges that persist, Toure expressed optimism in the potential of young people to drive positive change and combat corruption in Nigeria.
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