The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has disclosed that it tracked road and bridge projects worth over ₦21.23 trillion under the Federal Ministry of Works as part of efforts to curb corruption and promote accountability in public spending.
The Chairman of the commission, Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), made this known on Thursday in Abuja during an ICPC and Nigerian Union of Journalists workshop.
According to him, the commission has prioritised preventive measures through its Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, which focuses on monitoring public expenditure to ensure value for money.
“The Commission has prioritised oversight of public expenditure through the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, ensuring that public funds translate into tangible outcomes for citizens,” he said.
Aliyu revealed that under recent phases of the initiative, about 950 projects across 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory, valued at approximately ₦415.25 billion, were monitored.
“In addition, projects under the Federal Ministry of Works valued at over ₦21.23 trillion were also tracked, reflecting the scale of our preventive oversight responsibilities,” he stated.
He explained that the tracking exercise has helped uncover abandoned and underperforming projects, compel contractors to return to sites, and improve accountability in service delivery.
“These interventions have exposed abandoned projects, compelled contractors back to site, and strengthened accountability in public service delivery,” he added.
The ICPC chairman emphasised that project tracking serves as a proactive tool to deter corruption before it occurs.
He also called for stronger collaboration between the media and anti-corruption agencies, describing journalists as key partners in promoting transparency.
“The media remains one of the most powerful instruments in the fight against corruption. As journalists, you are not merely observers you are watchdogs, agenda-setters and catalysts for reform,” he said.
Aliyu urged journalists to deepen investigative reporting and uphold responsible journalism to support the anti-corruption campaign.
He noted that the workshop was aimed at fostering collaboration, generating ideas and developing actionable strategies for the next phase of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (2022–2026).
The engagement forms part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with the media in promoting transparency, accountability and public awareness in the fight against corruption.
