By Obiageli Nwankwo
The Anambra State Ministry of Education has organized a one-day sensitization seminar on anti-corruption strategies for its staff, as part of efforts to promote integrity and efficiency in the state’s public service.
The seminar, which was held at the Head of Service Hall, State Secretariat Complex, Awka, was organized by the Ministry’s Anti-Corruption Committee to introduce the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy (ANSACS)—a policy document developed in 2018 to combat corrupt practices across the state’s public service and other sectors.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Ministry’s Anti-Corruption Committee, Mr. Basil Ilegbunam, explained that the seminar was part of ongoing activities to create awareness and reorient workers on ethical conduct and workplace discipline aimed at improving productivity.
Delivering a keynote address, Mrs. Lilian Oguchi gave an overview of what constitutes corruption, describing it as a multifaceted issue involving immoral and unlawful actions that undermine integrity. She emphasized that corruption extends beyond major crimes like stealing or killing, noting that civil servants who come to work late, loiter during office hours, or hawk merchandise at work are engaging in corrupt practices.
Mrs. Oguchi also condemned the act of intentionally delaying someone’s file or work for gratification, stressing that such behavior contradicts civil service ethics. She further urged workers to maintain good public relations while performing their duties, as this leaves a positive impression on the public.
Addressing the misuse of official time, she cautioned against workers conducting personal morning devotions during office hours, saying it hampers productivity and disrespects citizens waiting for service. She outlined four key strategies used by the government to tackle corruption: prevention mechanisms, ethical and public reorientation, enforcement of sanctions, and ease of doing business.
Encouraging transparency, Mrs. Oguchi urged staff to use the Anambra State Anti-Corruption (ANSAC) Complaint Box provided by the committee to report unethical practices. She clarified that the Anti-Corruption Committees in ministries are not set up to witch-hunt but to ensure a more efficient and accountable workplace.
Another keynote speaker, Mrs. Ugochi Freeman, called on civil servants to uphold integrity and adhere to the code of conduct even when unsupervised, describing it as the true mark of a dedicated worker. “Ensure your yes is yes and your no is no,” she advised, stressing the importance of honesty and responsibility in public service.
In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Ege Chibuzor appreciated the Ministry, the Anti-Corruption Committee, and the guest speakers for their efforts in enlightening the staff. She encouraged all participants to put into practice the lessons learned for a more productive and ethical Anambra workforce.
Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
