By Amuneke Kelechi.
Staff of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Rivers State Coordinating Office, have been urged to embrace transparency, accountability, and integrity in the discharge of their duties. The call was made during a one-day capacity-building training held at the RMRDC Coordinating Office in Port Harcourt on Anti-Corruption.
The training, facilitated by the Deputy Director, Statistics and Policy Analysis Division of RMRDC, Dr. Hamilton Cyprian, focused on ethical standards, anti-corruption measures, and the importance of professionalism in public service. Mr. Hamilton emphasized that corruption undermines development efforts and urged participants to be role models in promoting good governance within and beyond the organization.
Dr. Cyprian described corruption as “the abuse of entrusted power for private gain” and “the exploitation of a system to secure unmerited advantages.” He emphasized that the training aimed to provide staff with an in-depth understanding of corruption practices, educate them on ethical conduct, and highlight the role of the Anti-Corruption Unit of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
He emphasised on staff rejecting corrupt practices and apply the knowledge gained during the training in their daily duties for both personal and organizational growth, particularly for those aspiring for promotion.
He also explained the role of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), a specialized body that works to prevent and fight corruption in both public and private sectors. According to him, ACTU acts as an intermediary between government agencies and the ICPC. He outlined its core functions: investigating and preventing corruption, raising awareness, educating staff, and promoting transparency.
In his remarks, the Rivers State Coordinator of RMRDC, Mr. Minzor Ezekiel, expressed appreciation to RMRDC, particularly the indefatigable Director-General, Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso, for sponsoring the impactful program while also commending the facilitator for the insightful presentation.
Staff members who participated in the training lauded the initiative, noting that it had strengthened their resolve to carry out their duties diligently and with integrity.
The session is part of RMRDC’s broader efforts to enhance institutional effectiveness and instil a culture of accountability in line with national anti-corruption strategies.