By Barbara Nwaiwu
The Anambra Imo River Basin Development Authority (AIRBDA) has inaugurated its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) to strengthen institutional integrity, transparency, and accountability in line with Federal Government directives.
The event held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the AIRBDA Headquarters in Owerri, Imo State, also featured a sensitisation programme by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to formalise collaboration between both institutions on ethical governance and transparency.
The Managing Director of AIRBDA, Rt. Hon. Barr. Anthony Emeka Nduka, represented by Hon. Evaristus Asadu, said the initiative marks a step toward building a stronger culture of integrity within the Authority.
He stated that the ACTU would serve as an internal structure to promote transparency, prevent corruption, and enhance accountability in operations.
He also charged the twelve-member committee, led by Mr. Gerald Amanze, to carry out their duties with professionalism and fairness, including monitoring compliance, staff sensitisation, and reviewing suspected cases of misconduct.
The Deputy Director of ICPC, Mrs. Chinwe Egbeocha, said corruption remains a major barrier to development, stressing the need for stronger internal controls and collective responsibility in tackling unethical practices.
Staff were urged to follow due process, maintain ethical standards, and report irregularities through approved channels, with assurance of whistleblower protection.
The Head of System Study and Review at ICPC, Mr. Ikeoha Chukwuma, referenced the 2023 ACTU Standing Orders guiding anti-corruption units across government agencies, including compliance monitoring and risk assessment.
The event ended with the inauguration and oath-taking of committee members by ICPC’s Head of Legal, Barr. Ikechukwu Ashirigba, marking a renewed partnership between AIRBDA and ICPC to promote accountability and transparency.
