CCB Reiterates Commitment to Assets Declaration Compliance Enforcement

By Praise Chinecherem

The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has restated its commitment to enforcing compliance to asset declaration by public office holders without fear of favour.

Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Bello Usman gave the assurance on Wednesday in Awka, Anambra state during a Two-day Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (ROLAC 2) capacity building workshop on the On-line Assets Declaration System.

The engagement themed, “Improving the Effectiveness of Anti-corruption Processes and Reforms” was organized by Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) in collaboration with CCB.

Usman, represented by Head, Education Department, Koyonda Edward described assets declaration as not just a statutory obligation but a moral imperative.

According to him, asset declaration remained the bedrock of ethical governance which today’s reality could not ignore.

He however regretted that corruption remained one of the most formidable obstacles to nation’s development, which he said erodes public trust, stifles economic growth and perpetuates inequality.

He said, “The CCB, as a corner of Nigeria’s integrity framework, recognises that declaration of assets is not just a statutory obligation but a moral imperative. It is the bedrock of ethical governance. We cannot ignore the reality of our time.

“Manual systems are susceptible to inefficiently, opacity and abuse. This is why the transition to digital Assets Declaration Platform is not just an upgrade but a revolution.

“By leveraging technology we eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, reduce human interference and create an acceptable trail that deters malfeasance. This system will empower public officials to declare Assets seamlessly while enabling real-time monitoring by shareholders.

“Anti-corruption reforms are not sole responsibility of government agencies. They demand a societal movement. When citizens actively demand accountability, and public servants lead by example, we create an eco-system where corruption cannot thrive.

“CCB reaffirms its commitment to this cause. We shall continue to innovate, collaborate and enforce compliance without fear of favour. But we need – the Media, Civil Society, and every Nigerian – to be our allies in this fight.”

While noting that the workshop was not merely about deploying tools, but building capacity, fostering ownership and nurturing collaboration, the CCB boss urged participants to approach it with openness, vigor and sense of urgency.

“Within these two days, we will demystify the technical and operational aspects of the on-line platforms; address challenges- cybersecurity, accessibility and compliance that may arise; strengthen partnerships between institutions, civil societies and citizens to ensure collective vigilance.

“Let us harness the power of technology to safeguard our Nation’s resources and restore public confidence. Your feedback is vital. The system must be user friendly, inclusive and resilient. Your insights will shape its success,” he added.

Appreciating the CSJ and ROLAC for their invaluable collaboration, generous funding and unwavering commitment to this cause, Usman said, “Your partnership underscores a shared vision: a Nigeria, where transparency, accountability and rule of law are not mere ideas but living principles guiding our nation’s progress.

“To our dedicated participants – Public Officials, Civil Society representatives and stakeholders, your presence here reflects your resolve to be at the forefront of the Nigeria’s anti-corruption journey.

“I urge everyone of us to approach this workshop with openness, vigor and a sense of urgency. Let us harness the power of technology to safeguard our Nation’s resources and restore public confidence. Together, let us build a legacy of integrity for generations to come”

Lead Director, Center for Social Justice (CSJ), Eze Onyekpere attributed increasing corruption in the system to public ignorance to asset declaration of public office holders, which he said the engagement was targeted at addressing.
He said, “The workshop is aimed at sensitizing and enlightening public servants and CSOs on the online asset declaration system.

“According to the law, both the President and cleaner in the local government are obliged to declare their assets.

“We’re also here to sensitize the public on the need to contribute to the verification process and that of entrenching accountability and transparency in the system.”

While hinting that the workshop was the maiden edition at the state level, Onyekpere, a lawyer assured cascading the training to grassroots through train-the-trainers approach.

Also speaking, Head, Information Communication Technology (ICT), John Sheshi said the workshop was intended to increase public awareness on importance and efficacy of assets declaration transition from manual to digital.

He listed core goals of cyber security to asset declaration to include Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability of information (CIA) as well as authenticity, non repudiation and trust.