The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has said it is ready to learn from China’s anti-corruption strategies. The goal is to improve Nigeria’s policies and institutional response to the problem of graft.

ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu made the remarks at the third International Diplomatic Dialogue held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The event, organised by the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, focused on sharing experiences from the Chinese approach to fighting corruption.

Aliyu noted that studying global best practices helps develop strategies that fit Nigeria’s unique challenges. He described corruption as a serious threat to political, social and economic progress when left unchecked, and expressed interest in China’s institutional reforms, enforcement methods and prevention policies.

The Provost of the academy, Prof Sheriff Ibrahim, said China’s rise as an economic power was partly due to strong political will and sustained anti-corruption efforts. He highlighted China’s use of unified investigations, zero-tolerance measures and technology to improve transparency.

Chinese Embassy Cultural Counsellor Yang Juanxing explained that China’s strategy goes beyond punishing offenders. It combines enforcement with prevention, institutional reforms, oversight and public education to create a system where people are unwilling, unable and afraid to engage in corruption. He stressed that accountability must apply to everyone, regardless of position or connections.

Photo credit: Punch Newspapers