ICPC to monitor education projects in Borno

Nigeria's Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is set to launch a monitoring program for education projects across Borno State. This initiative aims to foster transparency, accountability, and enhance the quality of service delivery within the state's primary and secondary school systems.

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The aim is to sensitise the management and staff of Borno State Universal Basic Education Board on the core values of the National Ethics and Integrity Policy of the Federal Government, and also inculcate transparency, integrity and professionalism in the delivery of services in the educational sector in Borno State

Linus Gubbi, the ICPC Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Borno and Yobe states, announced the plan following a sensitisation meeting with officials from the Borno State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). The meeting focused on knowledge sharing, particularly concerning procurement guidelines and strengthening mechanisms for reporting corruption.

Gubbi stated that the engagement was designed to familiarize SUBEB's management and staff with the Federal Government's National Ethics and Integrity Policy. The goal is to instill principles of transparency, professionalism, and accountability in the education sector.

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Subject to approval from headquarters, we may begin to monitor projects embarked upon by Borno SUBEB, just the way we track constituency and executive projects at the headquarters

Project monitoring, which is subject to approval from the ICPC headquarters, will focus on visible infrastructure projects like classroom blocks. Gubbi assured SUBEB officials of the commission's commitment to protecting whistle-blowers, emphasizing the importance of collective action in combating corruption. He highlighted existing laws that safeguard individuals who provide information leading to asset recovery.

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There are several laws that protect whistle-blowers and informants from keeping information. When you see something, you say something. There are several safeguards within the ICPC laws that protect people who volunteer information that will lead to recovery of assets

Dr. Hyelni Mshelia, Permanent Secretary of Borno SUBEB, found the sensitisation session impactful, noting that it clarified previously overlooked issues. She pledged that the board's leadership and staff would adhere to public service regulations and correct any practices found to be non-compliant.

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The interactive session was very impactful. Before now, there are so many things we take for granted that have been clearly spelt out here, that it is an offence