The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has urged secondary school students across the country to take ownership of the fight against corruption and champion the values of integrity and good character in Nigeria.
The call was made on Wednesday in Abuja when the Commission hosted students and staff from three secondary schools at its headquarters, as part of an educational visit designed to promote integrity and raise awareness about the fight against corruption.
The visit forms part of ICPC’s broader initiative to instil anti-corruption values in young Nigerians and nurture a generation of responsible citizens committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct.
Welcoming the students on behalf of the Commission, Mr. Demola Bakare, fFSI Director of the Public Enlightenment and Education Department, emphasised the critical need to tackle corruption at all levels of society, especially within the education sector.
The Deputy Director in charge of Public Enlightenment Division in the Commission, Dr. Oluwasina Babasola, who represented the Director, underscored the important role young people play in shaping the nation’s moral fabric, noting that, “Every time you choose to do the right thing, even when no one is watching, you are helping to build a better Nigeria. You are showing that young people can lead with values and integrity,”.
He further called on the students to be exemplary in character and conduct, noting that the nation’s future rests on the actions and decisions of its youth.
“You see, Nigeria belongs to all of us, and the future of our nation depends not just on what we say, but on what we do. One day, some of you may become teachers, doctors, engineers, journalists, or even the head of this Commission. Whatever path you choose, let your character be your strongest asset,” Dr Babasola added.
He urged the students to actively engage in the anti-corruption campaign from a young age, stating that the fight against corruption begins now, adding that, “You don’t have to wait to grow up before you can fight corruption. It starts now – with you,” How? By refusing to cheat in exams.
By speaking up when something is wrong. By telling the truth, even when it’s not easy and by being a good example to your friends”.
During the visit, students were given comprehensive briefings on the ICPC’s mandate, its key activities, and strategies for combating corruption in Nigeria.
They also participated in an interactive session designed to reinforce moral values and encourage them to become ambassadors of integrity within their schools and communities.
The engagement provided a platform for the students to interact directly with ICPC officials, ask questions, and gain firsthand insight into the Commission’s anti-corruption efforts.
ICPC believes that early exposure to anti-corruption education is vital to shaping a more transparent and accountable future. Through such engagements, the Commission aims to empower young Nigerians with the knowledge and values necessary to resist corrupt practices and promote a culture of integrity.
The visiting schools included Government Science and Technical College, Kwali; All Girls Grammar School, Apo; and Bethel International High School, Karu.
The Commission remains committed to working with educational institutions and other stakeholders to build a corruption-free Nigeria through enlightenment, partnership, and civic responsibility.
