Abuja: The Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Dr. Abdullahi Bello, emphasized the bureau’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategy, calling it the “centre” of the nation’s anti-corruption architecture. Bello highlighted this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), underlining the bureau’s intelligence-driven approach and its ability to gather vital information on public servants through asset declarations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Bello discussed the CCB’s enhanced collaboration with other anti-corruption bodies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). He noted the bureau’s cooperation in sharing information within legal confines, which aids in investigations, prosecutions, and convictions.
Bello mentioned that the bureau has been receiving intelligence from the NFIU, tax authorities, and registries, reinforcing its role as a central hub in the anti-corruption system. He also pointed to Nigeria’s improved international ratings and recent removal from the grey list, attributing these achievements to coordinated efforts led by the NFIU and supported by other agencies.
Furthermore, Bello disclosed ongoing asset recovery cases abroad, with interim forfeitures already secured. He believes these actions will bolster Nigeria’s global reputation once fully resolved. The CCB’s growing engagement with international organizations and embassies further underscores its increasing significance.
Bello stressed that improved staffing, technology, motivation, and inter-agency cooperation are crucial for sustaining the recent anti-corruption advancements. He identified the need for skilled staff and the right tools as the primary challenges facing the bureau, rather than sheer numbers.
He elaborated on the bureau’s focus on capacity building and strategic recruitment, with technology playing a crucial role in enhancing efficiency. The shift from manual to online asset declaration was highlighted as a key development, potentially reducing manpower needs while increasing output.
Bello also highlighted the importance of worker motivation, emphasizing that competitive welfare, salaries, and allowances are essential for maintaining integrity and performance in the bureau. Ensuring that CCB staff are compensated on par with their counterparts in other law enforcement agencies remains a priority to encourage optimal performance.