ICPC Calls for Overhaul of Integrity, Revenue Systems in NIWA
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called for a comprehensive overhaul of integrity and revenue-collection systems within the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), describing systemic reform as critical to national development.
ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, made the call while declaring open a two-day executive anti-corruption training in Abuja organised by NIWA in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN).
Addressing senior management staff of the Authority, Dr. Aliyu stressed that for an agency with NIWA’s strategic regulatory and revenue-generation responsibilities, institutionalising strong anti-corruption mechanisms is “not optional but essential.”
He emphasised that integrity must be embedded within organisational systems, processes and controls rather than left to individual discretion.
“Preventing corruption is more beneficial and cost-effective than running after stolen funds,” he said, highlighting the Commission’s preventive approach through system reviews, corruption risk assessments and capacity-building initiatives.
The ICPC Chairman assured NIWA of the Commission’s continued support in strengthening safeguards to protect public trust and enhance operational efficiency across Nigeria’s inland waterways network.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, underscored the strong connection between institutional integrity and national prosperity. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajia Fatima Sugra Tabi Mahmood, the Minister described NIWA as central to advancing the Federal Government’s Blue Economy agenda.
“System integrity is the foundation of effective public service, national development, and sustainable institutions,” he stated.
According to him, integrity is not merely a governance requirement but an economic imperative necessary for reducing transportation costs, facilitating trade and attracting investment. He urged stakeholders to demonstrate ethical leadership and adopt innovative strategies to improve revenue generation.
In his welcome remarks, NIWA Board Chairman, Barrister Mukhtari Shehu Shagari, CFR, aligned the retreat with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed that for NIWA, integrity must be a practical discipline guiding decision-making at all levels.
Barrister Shagari outlined measures aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability within the Authority, including the expansion of digital payment systems, reinforcement of internal controls, continuous ethics training for staff, and greater community participation in service monitoring.
“Our goal is not merely to increase revenue but to create resilient systems that attract private investment and foster community partnerships,” he said.
The Provost of ACAN, Professor Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim, represented by Deputy Director Mr. Clement Obaniyi, explained that the workshop was structured to deliver practical outcomes. Participants are expected to identify corruption risk areas in revenue management, implement effective controls against leakages, and develop actionable integrity plans for their respective units.
In his closing remarks, NIWA’s Acting Managing Director, Umar Yusuf Girei, expressed appreciation to the Minister, ICPC and the NIWA Board for their support. He urged staff members to sustain the collaborative momentum of the retreat in order to enhance institutional effectiveness and drive progress within the inland waterways sector.
