The Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, have pledged to work together in championing a corruption-free public service.
They believe that their shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures will undoubtedly pave the way for a more resilient, prosperous, and just Nigerian society.
The resolve of the two federal government agencies to partner was made recently when Mr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, the Director General of BPSR, visited Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NEITI.
While speaking at the NEITI House in Abuja, Arabi observed that their Bureau, as the lead reforms agency under the Presidency, shoulders the responsibility of catalyzing, coordinating, and monitoring reforms within the Nigerian Public Service.
"Our mandate is to usher in transformative changes that enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government.
"This aligns closely with NEITI's objectives, which revolve around promoting transparency and accountability in the management of Nigeria’s oil, gas, and mining revenues," he said.
The BPSR helmsman noted that NEITI, as the national chapter of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), has been a beacon of transparency, actively championing openness in the vital sectors of oil, gas, and mining.
He said: "Therefore, both BPSR and NEITI share a common thread as quasi-Anti-Corruption Agencies, diligently working to create an environment where graft finds no foothold. Our collaboration is symbiotic, as the reforms initiated by BPSR contribute to the overall transparency and effectiveness of agencies such as NEITI.
"Conversely, NEITI's endeavors support the broader reform ecosystem by demonstrating how transparency initiatives can lead to better governance outcomes".
He said that the extractive industries have historically been susceptible to corruption due to their economic significance.
According to him, NEITI's efforts in revealing and curbing these tendencies are commendable and resonate deeply with BPSR's vision of an accountable and corruption-resistant public service.
Arabi said: "This visit holds significant importance as it marks the collaboration and synergy between two pivotal entities, the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) and NEITI, both of which play vital roles in shaping our nation's governance and fostering transparency and accountability.
"The impact of our combined efforts on the Nigerian public service cannot be overstated. As we work together to create a culture of accountability and ethical conduct, we contribute to building public trust, attracting investments, and fostering economic growth.
"The success of NEITI in increasing revenue transparency sets a powerful example for other sectors to follow, and BPSR is committed to ensuring that such practices are ingrained across the spectrum of public service activities.
"In conclusion, I am optimistic that our partnership will serve as a cornerstone for driving positive change in our nation. Let us continue to forge ahead in our collaborative journey, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of governance in Nigeria".
While responding, Dr. Orji, appreciated Mr. Arabi and his BPSR delegation for the visit, assuring that NEITI will collaborate with the Bureau in order to engender accountability and transparency in the country's public service.
Signed:
Aliyu Umar Aliyu,
ACIO
August 24th, 2023.
