By: HighCelebritySquard
Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative by partnering with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to embed Nigerian cultural values at the forefront of the nation’s anti-corruption efforts. This collaboration aims to harness the power of cultural orientation as a formidable tool against corruption, marking a significant stride towards national integrity and ethical resurgence.
In a statement following a productive meeting with Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ajiboye outlined the vision behind the inter-agency collaboration. The partnership seeks to revitalise the core cultural values and moral principles that have traditionally guided Nigerian society but have been overshadowed recently.
“Cultural re-orientation is essential for combating the pervasive issue of corruption that undermines our country’s development,” Ajiboye emphasised. “Returning to our cultural roots, we can foster a societal ethos that inherently repudiates corrupt practices and promotes integrity.”
During the meeting, Ajiboye proposed integrating Cultural Orientation Training for EFCC officers. This innovative program is designed to equip law enforcement personnel with a deep understanding of Nigerian cultural principles, enhancing their effectiveness in investigations and creating a more culturally respectful approach to interrogations.
“The erosion of our cultural values has contributed significantly to the current state of moral decay and corruption,” stated Ajiboye. He further highlighted the adverse impact of foreign cultural influences, which have promoted a culture of greed and ethical compromise, contributing to the rise in financial crimes and corruption.
Ajiboye’s vision extends beyond immediate anti-corruption measures, aiming to instil long-term cultural awareness among policymakers and the Nigerian populace. NICO, backed by legislative mandate, is positioned to lead this cultural revival, advocating for integrating Nigerian cultural values in all aspects of national life.
This partnership with the EFCC represents a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against corruption, signalling a shift towards leveraging the nation’s rich cultural heritage as a foundational pillar for ethical governance and societal conduct.
