ICPC recovers billions, tracks ₦271bn in Projects in the North

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has made significant strides in its fight against corruption, announcing the tracking of government projects worth ₦271 billion across Northern Nigeria and recovering billions in cash and assets from abandoned or mismanaged initiatives. This milestone underscores the agency’s aggressive push to ensure accountability in public spending, particularly in regions plagued by insecurity and economic challenges.

Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, ICPC Chairman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, revealed these achievements during a media dialogue in Kano, emphasizing the commission’s Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative (CEPTI).

The initiative targets projects funded by public resources, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits to citizens. In the Northwest and Northeast, ICPC’s efforts have uncovered widespread irregularities, leading to the recovery of ₦7.3 billion from abandoned local government projects, alongside assets like 14 buildings, 25 plots of land, and three farmlands. These recoveries stem from rigorous investigations into poorly executed contracts, with contractors compelled to return misappropriated funds or resume work.

Aliyu highlighted the resilience of Northern Nigerians in resisting corruption, citing a UNODC-NBS survey showing a 76% bribe refusal rate in the Northwest, the highest in the country, and a 60% rate in the Northeast. Reports of bribery in these regions have surged from 4.7% in 2019 to 13.4% in 2023, with formal actions nearly tripling, reflecting growing public courage to confront corrupt practices.

“These are not just numbers; they represent Nigerians standing up for integrity,” Aliyu stated, urging media collaboration to amplify anti-corruption messages.

The ICPC’s work in the North addresses critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, where mismanagement has long hindered development. By deploying technology and expanding its presence across all 36 states, the commission aims to sustain momentum.

Community engagement with religious and traditional leaders is also a priority to foster a culture of accountability. As Nigeria battles economic strain and insecurity, these recoveries signal a commitment to redirecting public funds toward meaningful progress, offering hope to communities long underserved by stalled projects.