The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Monday officially inaugurated and inducted members of the newly constituted Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The ceremony, held today Monday 22 September at the Media Centre, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, marked the formal establishment of the Commission’s internal watchdog against corruption in line with ICPC’s statutory mandate to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Delivering his keynote address, the Chairman, National Sports commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the Commission’s journey towards a more transparent sports environment. He said the establishment of ACTU marked not only a compliance step but a new chapter in strengthening the integrity framework of the Commission.
Highlighting the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sport Economy (RHINSE) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman noted that accountability and transparency were central to attracting investment and restoring public trust in sports. He concluded with a call for all staff and stakeholders to see ACTU as a partner in progress, not an adversary, in order to collectively move Nigerian sports forward.
Dikko emphasized that sports reflect the values and aspirations of the nation and warned that corruption undermines both athletes’ welfare and Nigeria’s global image.
“According to him, the ACTU would play a pivotal role in combating unethical practices, safeguarding the welfare of athletes, coaches, and officials, and ensuring fairness in resource allocation”.
He congratulated the Committee members and urged them to carry out their tasks with diligence, courage, and creativity. He reminded them that they are not just investigators but also reformers tasked with developing systems and controls that will prevent corruption from taking root.
In his opening remarks, the Director-General, NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade described the inauguration as long overdue and a welcome development for the Commission. He noted that ACTU had already been established in other MDAs and expressed relief that the Sports Commission was now fully part of the anti-corruption drive.
The DG represented by the Director Finance and Account, Mr. Mustapha Ladan pledged management’s full cooperation, assuring the Committee that their work would be supported by institutional mechanisms, including the whistle-blower policy.
“Say something if you see something, and be rest assured of protection,” he assured.
He congratulated the new ACTU members on their appointment and emphasized that their nomination came after careful consideration of their integrity and record of service. According to him, they were chosen not by accident but because of the trust reposed in their character and ability to deliver.
He also urged staff across departments to provide the Committee with maximum support, reminding everyone that accountability is the responsibility of all.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Chairman, ICPC, Dr. Adamu Alliu, SAN, represented by the Director, System Study and Review Department, Mr. Olusegun Adigun, commended the NSC for embracing the ACTU framework. He reminded the new members that they are the conscience of the Commission and must live above the board in discharging their responsibilities.
He urged them to be proactive, saying their performance would directly impact public confidence in the Commission. He further assured that ICPC would continue to guide and mentor the Committee to achieve its mandate.
The high point of the event was the official induction and the administering of oath of allegiance by Barrister Ngozi Onwuka of the Legal Department, ICPC. She charged members to be committed and study ACTU’s mandate and commit themselves fully to its responsibilities.
Dr. Osuobeni Ekio is the desk officer assigned to National Sports commission to guide them in the discharge of their duties
On behalf of the inaugurated members, the Chairman of the ACTU Committee, Mr. Abdulahi Bui accepted the responsibility with “a sense of duty and humility,” while acknowledging the enormity of the task ahead. He appealed for the cooperation of management and staff, stressing that ACTU’s success depends on collective commitment.
“We are neither angels nor saints,” he said, “but with your support and correction whenever we stray, we can achieve a just and incorruptible public service.”
The event ended with a vote of thanks delivered by the Director of Special Duties, National Sports Commission, Mr. Isa Tijani, he expressed appreciation to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for inaugurating the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in the Commission.
Mr. Tijani congratulated the newly inaugurated ACTU members, charging them to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and commitment, while commending staff, stakeholders, and invited guests for their participation and support. He wished all participants safe trips back to their respective offices.
With this inauguration, the National Sports Commission formally joins other MDAs in adopting ACTU as part of the Federal Government’s wider to campaign to entrench transparency and accountability in public service.
