Fagbemi seeks global support, says Nigeria taking bold steps to combat corruption

Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, says Nigeria is taking bold steps and putting measures in place to tackle corruption in the country.

Fagbemi spoke at the 10th session of the conference of the states parties (COSP) to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in Atlanta, United States of America.

Fagbemi underscored the threats posed by corruption, money laundering and illicit financial flows to the development of Nigeria and other nations.

“We note with great concern, the threats posed by corruption, money laundering and illicit financial flows to the country,” he said.

“Nigeria has suffered greatly from the damaging effect of corruption, money laundering and IFFs which has resulted in the loss of colossal amounts of money running into billions by the country.

“We are however taking some bold steps and measures to combat the vices, including the opening of a beneficial ownership register. 

“Asset recovery is the kernel of our anti-corruption fight. Let me reiterate Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, money laundering and IFFs.”

The minister also urged all state parties to the UNCAC to support the Nigerian government’s efforts to combat money laundering, corruption, and illicit financial firms (IFFs).

He added that emphasis would be placed on opaque companies operating in the nation.

The Nigerian delegation to the 10th CoSP includes Bolaji Owasanoye, the outgoing chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC); Solomon Arase, chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC); Beatrice Jeddy-Agba, solicitor-general of the federation and permanent secretary, federal ministry of justice.

Heads of anti-corruption agencies, senior officials of the federal ministry of foreign affairs and federal ministry of justice were also part of the Nigerian delegation.

Every two years, the COSP unites professionals in the field of anti-corruption law, legislators, business leaders, and members of civil society to redouble efforts in the fight against corruption.

The 10th COSP offers a chance to assess the situation and reaffirm international commitments to putting the pertinent laws into effect, particularly the COSP resolutions and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).

Among other things, the review of the convention’s implementation, asset recovery, international collaboration, and prevention are anticipated to be the main topics of discussion during the session.

Nigeria ratified the convention in 2004 after signing it in 2003, making it a state party to the UNCAC.