As Nigeria joins the global community to mark the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day, the Federal Government has called for active participation of youths in the fight against corruption. At a high-level seminar themed “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” organized by the the Inter-Agency Task Team, IATT, in collaboration with the European Union, Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption, RoLAC Programme, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), MacArthur Foundation and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD)on Monday in Abuja, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), emphasized the need to engage young Nigerians in combating corruption.

“Our youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are changemakers today. We must inspire and equip them to drive the fight against corruption through education, empowerment, and opportunities for active participation in governance,” Fagbemi said.  Fagbemi called on Nigerians to unite against corruption. “Corruption is a battle we can win if we act collectively and decisively,” he said. 

The Head of the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), Jane Onwumere, reiterated the need for unity in addressing corruption.

She said: “Corruption impedes national development, and the active involvement of our youths is key to building a culture of integrity and transparency in Nigeria.” She also stressed that youth engagement is critical to building a future rooted in integrity.

“The youth are central to shaping the future of this nation. Their active participation in combating corruption is not only necessary but vital in implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2022–2026,” she said.

On his part, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), described youths as “powerful agents of change” and highlighted ongoing ICPC initiatives like the National Values Curriculum and sexual harassment prevention programs in tertiary institutions. He also revealed plans for an African Regional Youth Camp to foster collaboration among youth leaders in anti-corruption efforts. 

UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, emphasized the transformative power of technology in combating corruption, urging youths to leverage tools like blockchain and anonymous reporting apps to enhance transparency.

“Your voices and actions can dismantle corrupt systems and build a future rooted in integrity,” Toure stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji noted that corruption remains one of the most significant threats to Nigeria’s progress.

Dr Orji stated that the “revenues generated from our natural resources should drive development and prosperity for all. However, corruption has often diverted these funds, undermining growth, stability, and the well-being of our citizens.

“On this International Anti-Corruption Day, it is essential that we reflect on both our progress and the challenges that lie ahead. NEITI, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has been at the forefront of advocating for transparency and accountability in the extractive industries. Through rigorous audits, stakeholder engagement, and policy reforms, we have sought to foster an environment where openness prevails and corruption is curtailed” he added.