The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye has said that the Ministry is committed to eliminating corrupt practices, hence the need to collaborate with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in promoting those ideals to strengthen the Ministry’s anti-corruption efforts in the Country.
Esuabana who was represented by the Director of Special Duties Mr. Bisong Agbor said this during the Inauguration of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), held today in Abuja.
She noted that members of ACTU in the Ministry, need to be made effective in order to inculcate discipline within the Ministry to avoid corrupt practices and enhance positive development and progress in the service.
The Permanent Secretary explained that the inauguration of the unit signifies the Ministry’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability as core values in the public service, adding that the members of the Unit has been discreetly selected across the departments.
She then assured them that the Ministry will adequately equip the Unit to enable them discharge their assignment effectively in the fight against corruption.
Earlier, the representative of the Hon. Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Mr. Olusegun Adigun said that ACTU functions as a complementary body to the management operating under direct oversight of the Permanent Secretary, adding that the role is not to replace management, but to strengthen efforts in promoting transparency, accountability and ethical ‘practices that will help combat corruption in the country.
He urged the management to provide the necessary supports by creating an enabling environment, allocating adequate funds, ensuring proper office facilities and granting representation in standing committees as stipulated in Government’s circular.
Signed
Pauline Sule (Mrs.)
Head (Information & PRU)
