NEITI, the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, is seeking the support of the EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) to ensure transparency and accountability in the extractive industries in Nigeria. The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonaya Orji, emphasized the need for the extractive industry to be open and accountable during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede in Abuja. NEITI aims to enforce compliance with disclosure of information and data by companies, and it seeks the strong support of the EFCC in this endeavour.
Dr. Orji highlighted that 28 out of the 36 states in Nigeria are sourcing 84% of their revenue from allocation from the federation accounts. He also emphasized that NEITI’s findings and recommendations are leading reforms in the oil, gas, and mining industries. To achieve more optimal results, NEITI called for stronger collaboration and synergy with the EFCC, expressing confidence in the EFCC as a strong ally in the industry.
Furthermore, Dr. Orji called for joint training, capacity building, and manpower development for staff of both the EFCC and NEITI. In response, the EFCC’s boss stressed the importance of transparency as the pillar of every anti-corruption effort. He highlighted that lessons learned from fraud investigations should guide individuals, organizations, and nations, and assured NEITI of enhanced collaboration, including allowing NEITI desks in the EFCC’s zonal offices.