The need for collaboration between armed forces and para-military agencies in Nigeria

Highlighting the importance of synergy among armed forces and para-military agencies, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Nigeria emphasized the crucial role of cooperation in combating corruption.

During the opening ceremony of a workshop titled “21st Century Policing: Capacity Building Techniques and Brand Management for Security Image Makers” in Abuja on Wednesday, ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, underscored the necessity for collective efforts in the fight against corruption.

Speaking through the Commission’s Secretary, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Okparaodu, Dr. Aliyu expressed ICPC’s readiness to collaborate with other security agencies to tackle corruption effectively.

He stated, “The battle against corruption cannot be won single-handedly, but through collaborative endeavors involving stakeholders like yourselves. As the representatives and image builders of your organizations, it is essential to not only portray a positive image but also exhibit integrity by addressing corruption openly.”

Earlier in the event, Prof. Olawale Babawale, the Provost of Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, disclosed that the academy has trained over 24,000 individuals since its establishment in 2014, extending its reach to participants from the ECOWAS sub-region and the African Union utilizing diverse training methods.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of public relations professionals as guardians of integrity, Prof. Babawale stressed the significance of their contribution to the anti-corruption campaign, particularly within military, para-military, law enforcement, and private security sectors.

He remarked, “The structured learning objectives aim to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to actively engage in the fight against corruption while executing their responsibilities proficiently using contemporary approaches. This approach sets a strong foundation for a sustained anti-corruption campaign.”

Attendees at the workshop included representatives from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), among others.