The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has described the Nigerian media as a strategic weapon in the country’s fight against corruption, reaffirming its commitment to sustained collaboration with journalists in promoting transparency and ethical governance.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Mr John Okor Odey, on Thursday, 4 December 2025, following the 2025 Annual Conference and AGM of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria held in Abuja.
According to the ICPC, the media remains one of the most critical pillars in Nigeria’s anti-graft architecture and an indispensable ally in reinforcing public integrity.
The statement reads partly: “The ICPC reaffirms the vital role of the media as a strategic partner in combating corruption and promoting integrity in Nigeria.
“Under the leadership of the Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, the Commission continues to strengthen its engagement with media professionals as essential allies in exposing corruption and reinforcing ethical standards.
“The media remains a critical stakeholder within Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, as credible journalism is fundamental to ensuring transparency, public enlightenment, and accountability in governance.
“The Commission reiterates its unwavering commitment to a sustained partnership with the media in the collective effort to build a nation anchored on integrity.”
The Commission noted that the remarks were delivered on behalf of its Chairman by Mr Odey, who represented Dr Aliyu at the high-level event.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who chaired the conference, described the media as the backbone of Nigeria’s democratic stability. He urged stronger cooperation between government institutions, the press, and civil society to safeguard national unity and the nation’s democratic future.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, also addressed the gathering. He said the conference theme was timely, stressing that responsible journalism and constructive engagement were essential to strengthening public trust and democratic consolidation.
Earlier, the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, expressed deep concern over the increasingly precarious state of the Nigerian media space, noting that the safety and welfare of journalists must be prioritised to enable them fulfil their constitutional duties without fear.
Other goodwill messages came from senior security officials, including a representative of the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Dr Mrs Bolatito Olufe, who commended IPI Nigeria’s reforms and emphasised that objectivity, professionalism, and national interest must remain at the heart of journalism practice.
The ICPC emphasised that it would continue to work closely with the media to advance transparency, deepen accountability, and strengthen the fight against corruption nationwide.
