••• As ICPC, MacArthur, NUJ train Journalists On Fight against Corruption
As part of efforts to further strengthen the fight against corruption in Nigeria, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, in collaboration with MacArthur Foundation and Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ on Monday trained media professionals across the Country.
Over 70 Journalists converged on the FCT from across the country at the One- day training held at Reiz Continental Hotel in Abuja.
Declaring the workshop open, Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Senator Udende Emmanuel commended the ICPC for its commitment towards fighting corruption to the bare minium.
He urged the media professionals to be truthful and follow ethics of journalism while discharging their duties.
Represented by Senator Sheu Lawan gave the assurance that the National Assembly would continue to support anti corruption agencies to wage war against corruption and other financial misappropriations in the interest of good governance.
In his address, Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu called on the media to intensify efforts in supporting the fight against corruption in Nigeria as he highlighted the essential roles that the media play in promoting transparency and holding individuals as well as institutions accountable.

He stressed that the media is a crucial partner in exposing corrupt practices and creating public awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption.
“The media is a key ally in our fight against corruption, without the work of investigative journalists and robust reporting, much of the corruption we see today would remain hidden from the public eye,” he stated.
He urged pen professionals to continue digging deep into corruption cases and also to ensure accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in their reporting.
The Country Director of the MacArthur Foundation, Dr. Kole Shettima called on media to expose corruption and highlight positive stories and individuals driving change in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
In his remarks, the President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Comrade Chris Iziguso who commended the efforts of ICPC in fighting corruption stressed the need to create mechanisms towards ensuring safety of journalists.

“While our role in combating corruption is crucial, we cannot ignore the inherent dangers that come with it. The fight against corruption is, in itself, a risky venture. Journalists who expose corruption often face threats to their lives, intimidation, harassment, and, in some cases, physical violence. Unfortunately, these risks are all too real in Nigeria and other parts of the world.
“The safety and security of journalists must be a top priority if we are to continue this essential work. The NUJ, along with our partners, must advocate for stronger protections for journalists who take on the dangerous task of exposing corruption. There is an urgent need for laws that not only protect freedom of the press but also ensure that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of retaliation.
“Journalists should not be forced to choose between their duty to the public and their personal safety. We need comprehensive policies that guarantee the security of investigative journalists and whistleblowers, ensuring that their important work does not result in harm. This includes creating mechanisms for reporting threats, providing legal support, and fostering a safe environment where journalists can carry out their work with confidence.



“I call on the government, civil society organizations, and media owners to ensure that journalists are well-equipped and protected, both physically and legally, to investigate and report on corruption without interference. The pen is mightier than the sword, but it must be wielded with safety in mind.“
Also, the Director of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria FRCN, Dr Muhammed Bulama, that of the Nigeria Television Authority NTA, represented by Haji Alima Musa-Sule and that of the News Agency of Nigeria NAN, noted that media was the most successful tool to fight corruption in the country, promising more robust partnership with ICPC in its fight against corrupt practices.