According to Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Africa loses over $50 billion annually due to illicit financial outflows.
Speaking at a debate competition in Lagos themed on whistleblowers’ protection against corruption, Akutah emphasized the detrimental impact of these outflows on Africa’s development goals and quality of life.
Akutah highlighted that corruption permeates every aspect of society, hindering national advancement and stability.
He underscored the importance of whistleblowing in combating corruption, advocating for coordinated efforts across investigative, prosecutorial, and judicial systems to protect whistleblowers effectively.
The NSC has implemented policies, including a Code of Conduct and an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, to safeguard whistleblowers.
Akutah noted that whistleblowers in Nigeria have facilitated the recovery of billions of naira, which have been reinvested in critical infrastructure development.
The debate competition aimed to engage young people in discussions about national and global issues. It emphasized their role as integral to societal progress and the fight against corruption.
Source: PUNCH