By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) have sealed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at deepening transparency, enhancing accountability, and strengthening oversight of public finances across Nigeria.
According to an official signed statement by the ICPC Spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, the agreement was formalised on Tuesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, in an event that coincided with International Anti-Corruption Day, an alignment many described as both symbolic and strategic, reinforcing the nation’s renewed push for integrity in public administration.
Welcoming the FRC delegation, ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, said the partnership reflects the Commission’s long-standing belief in collaborative enforcement and preventive action. He noted that the FRC’s expertise in monitoring fiscal activities makes it an indispensable ally in curbing illicit financial practices.
“ICPC must feel like home because of our longstanding relationship,” Dr Aliyu said. “Information is power, and working closely with the FRC is essential for promoting accountability in government spending, budgeting, and borrowing. The ICPC stands ready to support this partnership at all times.”
He stressed that the renewed cooperation would empower both agencies to better detect, prevent, and address fiscal irregularities while ensuring that public funds are managed efficiently and within legal frameworks.
FRC Chairman, Barrister Victor Muruako, praised the ICPC for its consistent engagement with partner institutions, describing the MoU as a formal reinforcement of an already productive alliance.
“While the FRC continues to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, our relationship with the ICPC requires formalisation through this MoU to improve our collective service delivery,” he said.
Muruako noted that signing the MoU on International Anti-Corruption Day was particularly meaningful, given the global significance of the date. He expressed confidence that the partnership would yield tangible outcomes in safeguarding public resources.
“I believe this MoU will yield positive results. Our agencies are true partners in safeguarding public resources,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the FRC’s statutory mandate to scrutinise government borrowing and expenditure, warning that reports of violations by some financial institutions remain concerning. He emphasised that all borrowing must strictly adhere to fiscal laws to prevent misuse and ensure economic stability.
The MoU is expected to facilitate seamless information sharing between both agencies, enhance oversight of revenue and expenditure, and strengthen mechanisms for detecting, investigating, and prosecuting fiscal-related corruption cases nationwide.
Both ICPC and FRC expressed optimism that the partnership would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s public financial management system, foster transparency, and promote a governance structure grounded in accountability and fiscal discipline.
