The Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) has called for the creation of detailed guidelines to ensure the full implementation of the ECOWAS Protocol in the fight against corruption.
This resolution was announced in a communique issued in Abuja on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, following a three-day Annual General Assembly.
The communique, adopted and signed by all NACIWA member states, emphasised the importance of developing guidelines that align with international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and the African Union (AU) Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption. These guidelines are seen as critical for advancing anti-corruption efforts across the West African sub-region.
At the Assembly, which commenced on August 19, 2024, with significant participation from key stakeholders, NACIWA advocated for stronger anti-corruption frameworks. One of the primary issues highlighted was the need for improved funding and resources for anti-corruption agencies within the region, as sufficient financial and human resources are vital for their effective operation.
NACIWA also urged the ECOWAS Commission to expedite the formation of a Technical Commission to ensure the smooth implementation of the ECOWAS Anti-Corruption Protocol. NACIWA pledged its support and expertise to aid in this endeavour.
The communique addressed the importance of harmonising legal and regulatory frameworks across West Africa to prevent corrupt individuals from exploiting inconsistencies between nations. It also stressed the need for increased regional collaboration in tackling cross-border corruption and facilitating information sharing.
Additionally, NACIWA underscored the necessity of leveraging technology to improve transparency and efficiency in anti-corruption initiatives. The Network encouraged the widespread adoption of Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) tools to proactively identify and address corruption vulnerabilities.
Another key topic of discussion was the development of ECOWAS guidelines on asset recovery and cross-border investigations. The draft guidelines, presented at the Assembly, aim to streamline asset recovery efforts and foster greater collaboration in tracking and prosecuting corruption cases that span multiple countries. NACIWA urged the ECOWAS Commission to finalise the guidelines with input from member institutions.
In closing, NACIWA expressed gratitude to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and the Nigerian government’s provision of a permanent secretariat for the Network. The communique also acknowledged ECOWAS for hosting the 6th Annual General Assembly, reinforcing the region’s dedication to eradicating corruption.
By strengthening regional cooperation and implementing robust guidelines, NACIWA and its member states are taking significant steps to bolster the fight against corruption in West Africa.
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