By Mohammed Bello Doka
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has commenced Phase 7 of its Constituency and Executive Project Tracking Exercise, a significant step in its drive to promote accountability in public spending.
This initiative, which began in 2019, focuses on tracking the utilization of funds allocated to critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, water resources, and power. By scrutinizing these projects, the ICPC aims to ensure they are completed, meet quality standards, and serve the intended beneficiaries.
Over N610 Billion Under Review
Phase 7 of the exercise, launched on Monday, November 18, 2024, targets 1,500 projects valued at N610 billion across 22 states in Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. The states include Kwara, Niger, Kogi, FCT, Kebbi, Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Cross River, Delta, Imo, Abia, and Enugu.
The sheer scale of the projects under review underscores the Commission’s determination to ensure that public funds are spent effectively and transparently.
Strengthening Accountability
The Constituency and Executive Project Tracking initiative is a core part of ICPC's strategy to tackle corruption and inefficiency in public sector spending. By collaborating with community stakeholders, contractors, civil society organizations, and local governments, the Commission ensures a multi-faceted approach to project evaluation.
An ICPC representative emphasized the importance of this phase: "The objective of this exercise is to ensure that resources allocated for developmental projects are used as intended. It is about improving the lives of Nigerians and safeguarding public trust in government spending."
Achievements and Anticipations
Since its inception, the tracking initiative has exposed fraudulent practices, led to the recovery of diverted funds, and pushed for the completion of abandoned projects. The 7th phase aims to build on these successes by focusing on a wider array of projects and addressing emerging challenges in project implementation.
Public Participation is Key
The ICPC calls on Nigerians to actively participate by reporting any irregularities in project execution. Citizens are urged to monitor projects within their communities and ensure contractors adhere to specifications. By doing so, they contribute to a culture of transparency and accountability.
The ICPC’s Phase 7 tracking exercise represents a bold step towards improving governance and public trust. With over N610 billion under review, it is a significant opportunity to ensure government spending delivers tangible benefits for all Nigerians.
For more information on the exercise, visit the ICPC’s official website: icpc.gov.ng.
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