Mohammed Idris Charges CCB Officers To Uphold Integrity, Due Process

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has charged officers of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to uphold integrity, professionalism, fairness and due process in carrying out their duties.

Idris gave the charge on Monday at the closing ceremony of a training programme for 102 CCB officers held at the EFCC Academy in Karu, Abuja.

He described the CCB as a critical part of Nigeria’s governance structure, saying its constitutional mandate to promote high standards of conduct in public office and enforce the Code of Conduct for Public Officers was essential to transparency, accountability and public trust.

The Minister said the fight against corruption could not be won through enforcement alone, stressing the need for prevention, ethical leadership, public enlightenment and strong institutions.

“Communication is not simply about announcing government policies or disseminating information about government activities. It is also about helping citizens understand the values, responsibilities and expectations that underpin good governance,” Idris said.

He also highlighted the role of the media in promoting accountability through accurate reporting, investigative journalism and sustained public enlightenment.

Idris said the fight against corruption was a shared responsibility involving government institutions, the media, civil society, professional bodies and citizens.

Addressing the graduating officers, he urged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to their work, warning that the manner in which CCB officials conduct investigations and handle complaints could directly affect public confidence in government institutions.

“Every investigation conducted fairly, every declaration properly examined, every complaint handled professionally, and every decision taken in accordance with the law contributes to the larger objective of building a public service that Nigerians can trust,” he said.

The Minister further urged the officers to ensure that professionalism accompanies authority and that fairness and respect for due process remain central to their responsibilities.

“Nigeria needs public officers who understand that public office is a trust, not a privilege; that authority must be exercised responsibly; and that accountability is indispensable to good governance,” he said.

Idris reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to supporting initiatives that promote transparency, ethical conduct and accountability.

The event was attended by the Chairmen of the CCB, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, as well as the Attorney-General of the Federation and other senior officials.