Corruption Hampering Nigeria’s Development in Education, Health, Says Abbas

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has pointed out that corruption has long been a significant barrier to Nigeria’s progress, particularly in key sectors such as education and healthcare. Speaking at the commemoration of the UN International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 in Abuja, Abbas addressed the theme of the event, “Uniting the Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” highlighting the detrimental effects of corruption on national development.

Abbas explained that corruption drains valuable resources that could otherwise be allocated to critical infrastructure, job creation, education, and healthcare. He stressed that billions of dollars are lost each year to corrupt practices, which deprives Nigerians of essential services and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. According to the Speaker, corruption not only erodes the social fabric but also marginalizes the most vulnerable members of society, undermining trust in public institutions and creating widespread disillusionment.

“Corruption remains one of the greatest obstacles to our national development. It hampers progress, destroys public trust, and weakens the social contract between the government and its citizens,” Abbas remarked. He called on leaders and policymakers to confront corruption with unwavering commitment and innovative solutions to secure a brighter future for Nigeria.

The Speaker emphasized the vital role that parliaments play in combating corruption, noting that they help maintain transparency in governance through lawmaking, overseeing public institutions, and holding the executive accountable. “As representatives of the people, parliaments demand accountability and ensure that governance serves the public’s best interests,” Abbas said.

Abbas also highlighted the legislative measures taken by the Nigerian National Assembly to fight corruption, such as passing the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) Act, the Proceeds of Crime Act, and amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). These laws aim to enhance transparency in corporate governance and curb corruption in the private sector.

The current House of Representatives has also made anti-corruption a priority by reviewing existing laws to improve enforcement and close legal loopholes. Notably, they are working on amending the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Act and advancing the Whistleblower Protection Bill to shield individuals who report corruption.

While acknowledging the important strides made by the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Abbas stressed that legislative efforts alone are insufficient. A holistic approach involving civil society, the private sector, and international partners is essential to effectively tackle corruption. “We must empower citizens to demand accountability and actively participate in governance,” he urged.

Hon. Kayode Akiolu, Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, echoed Abbas’ remarks, emphasizing the theme of this year’s commemoration as a call to inspire the next generation to champion integrity and accountability. Akiolu also provided an update on the Committee’s activities, which include overseeing public expenditures and ensuring the implementation of anti-corruption policies across government agencies. He concluded by reiterating that the fight against corruption is a collective responsibility that requires sustained, unified action from all sectors of society.