The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed the vital role of the media as a strategic partner in combating corruption and promoting integrity in Nigeria.
The declaration was made in a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, at the 2025 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, recently held in Abuja.
Represented by the Commission’s Spokesperson and Head of Media and Public Communications, Mr. John Okor Odey, the Chairman stated that under his leadership, the ICPC continued to strengthen its engagement with media professionals as essential allies in exposing corruption and reinforcing ethical standards.
He emphasised that the media remained a critical stakeholder within Nigeria’s anti-corruption architecture, noting that credible journalism was fundamental to ensuring transparency, public enlightenment, and accountability in governance.
The high-level conference attracted eminent national figures, including the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, GCON, who served as Chairman of the occasion. In his address, he described the media as the backbone of democratic stability.
The Vice-President stated that one of the media’s most sacred duties was the protection of democracy and called for collective efforts among government institutions, the media, and civil society to safeguard national unity and democratic governance.
He further acknowledged the indispensable role of journalists as partners in nation-building, stressing that every nation was profoundly shaped by the strength and responsibility of its press.
Also delivering a speech was the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, who described the Conference theme as timely and critical to the growth of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Mr. Malagi emphasised the need for responsible journalism, constructive engagement, and continuous dialogue between the government and the media to strengthen public trust and national cohesion.
In his welcome address, the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, expressed concern over the increasingly challenging state of the Nigerian media landscape. He highlighted the safety and welfare of journalists as a major concern, stressing that it is imperative for reporters and media practitioners to be protected from harm while carrying out their constitutional duties.
Goodwill messages were also delivered by other stakeholders, including a representative of the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Dr. Mrs. Bolatito Olufe. She commended the leadership of IPI Nigeria for its positive reforms and renewed commitment to press freedom, stressing that objectivity, professionalism, and national interest must remain the guiding principles of journalism practice in Nigeria.
The ICPC reiterates its unwavering commitment to a sustained partnership with the media.
