The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling corruption, stating that ongoing reforms are delivering measurable results and strengthening systems to promote transparency, accountability, and financial integrity across institutions.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said recent efforts have improved coordination among agencies while enhancing oversight mechanisms to detect and prevent financial crimes nationwide.
Represented by Dili Ezughah, he highlighted that strengthened financial intelligence systems and regulatory frameworks are enabling authorities to monitor suspicious transactions more effectively while ensuring compliance with international standards.
Idris noted that reforms driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit have boosted confidence in the financial system and tightened controls against illicit financial flows.
“We have deepened inter-agency collaboration, ensuring that relevant institutions work in a more coordinated and efficient manner to detect, investigate, and prevent financial crimes,” he said.
The minister emphasized the crucial role of the media in the anti-corruption campaign, describing journalists as key actors in shaping public awareness and strengthening accountability through accurate reporting and investigative work.
“The media is not just an observer in society; it is a powerful force that shapes perception, drives accountability, and influences national direction. In the fight against corruption, the media plays a central role. An informed society is an empowered society, and without public awareness, the fight against corruption cannot be won,” Idris said.
He also acknowledged challenges facing journalists, including misinformation, limited resources, and safety concerns, stressing the need for training, collaboration, and improved access to credible information.
Idris called for a sustained partnership between government institutions and the media, saying, “Going forward, we must strengthen collaboration between government institutions and the media. We must invest in training and capacity building for journalists.”
Also speaking, Edwin Harris Jr. urged media practitioners to strengthen their role in exposing financial crimes while maintaining integrity.
“You must stand firm, hold your head high, reject brown envelopes where necessary, and speak the truth, and nothing but the truth. You are not antagonists; you are not here to bring people down. Your work is to advance the truth. The media must deepen its narrative and enhance its knowledge of anti-money laundering safeguards,” he said.
