By Uzair Adam
The Kano State Government has implemented a series of measures to strengthen its anti-corruption framework and improve governance.
Speaking during the commemoration of the 2024 International Anti-Corruption Day and Human Rights Day on Tuesday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf unveiled the Kano Integrated Governance Accountability System.
The system, to be implemented across all 44 local government areas, will utilize an e-portal to enhance transparency in contract awards and public administration.
Governor Yusuf highlighted the state’s progress in developing a Central Criminal Register Software designed to streamline the criminal justice process, ensure fairness, and combat corruption effectively.
“To bolster our anti-corruption efforts, we have proposed amendments to the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law and are working on a Proceeds of Crime Bill to ensure transparent management of recovered assets,” Yusuf stated.
He described the significance of eradicating corruption as a “cancer that erodes trust and undermines institutions.”
He also linked anti-corruption efforts to protecting human rights, stressing the administration’s commitment to justice, equity, and accountability.
The event featured a symposium and an evening musical concert to engage stakeholders, particularly youth, in the fight against corruption, human rights abuses, and gender-based violence.
The Governor commended the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, which is led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, for its dedication to promoting transparency and accountability.
He also extended appreciation to federal anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC, ICPC, and the National Human Rights Commission, as well as development partners like the MacArthur Foundation and ROLAC, for their collaborative efforts.
In his address, Barrister Rimingado reiterated the Commission’s commitment to tackling corruption and urged young Nigerians to participate in the fight actively.
The state’s Attorney General, Haruna Isa-Dederi, also praised the Governor for providing an enabling environment and revealed that the Ministry of Justice now has an Anti-Corruption Unit empowered to investigate and prosecute cases.
Representing the ICPC Chairman, Ibrahim Garba-Kagara highlighted the challenges of combating corruption, citing insufficient political will and public awareness as key obstacles.
However, he commended Kano State’s proactive approach and encouraged youth participation.
The symposium drew participants from various sectors, including representatives from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions and officials from the EFCC, DSS, Code of Conduct Bureau, civil society organizations, and the Kano State Police Command.
The initiatives unveiled underscore the state’s commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.