- We’ve spent €88m to support Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts since 2005-EU
- Says 35 states commit to VAPP Act
The European Union has officially communicated its allocation of 88 million euros towards supporting Nigeria’s anti-corruption initiatives since 2005. Furthermore, the EU has committed an additional 30 million euros over the next five years to enhance the Rule of Law, combat corruption, and address gender-based violence in the country.
This announcement was made during the formal launch of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC Phase II) Programme in Abuja. The initiative, implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) and funded by the European Union, aims to fortify the rule of law, intensify the fight against corruption, diminish gender-based violence, uphold human rights, and ensure inclusivity for all Nigerians.
Samuela Isopi, the EU Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, conveyed these developments, emphasizing the substantial impact of the first phase, which affected 1.5 million Nigerians. The second phase, spanning five years, will be executed in Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Lagos, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with potential expansion to two additional states. Isopi highlighted the achievements of the initial phase, including policy establishment and reinforcement, heightened compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice law, improved inter-agency cooperation, expanded access to justice for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, and enhanced protection of children’s rights.
The succeeding phase of the program will concentrate on criminal justice, prison reform, combatting sexual and gender-based violence, and reinforcing anti-corruption policies and tools. Ambassador Isopi emphasized the imperative role of enforcement in effectively addressing corruption in Nigeria, expressing support for the country’s anti-graft initiatives.
She underscored corruption’s detrimental impact on governance, human rights, and poverty, portraying it as a significant hindrance to democratic institutions and socio-economic growth. The EU Ambassador emphasized the fight against corruption as a pivotal aspect of the EU’s agenda, both domestically and internationally, aligning with partner countries’ priorities.
Danladi Plang, the Head of the Programme at Nigeria International IDEA, outlined the overarching goal of ROLAC Phase II as consolidating rule of law and anti-corruption reforms in Nigeria. Plang noted that Kano remains the only state yet to domesticate the VAPP Act. The program will specifically target and support improved performance and oversight of the criminal justice system, enhanced access to justice for vulnerable populations, and increased transparency and accountability in anti-corruption systems.
Abubakar Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, endorsed ROLAC Phase II’s alignment with the National Development Plan 2021-2025, emphasizing the promotion of women’s full participation in the economy for socio-economic advancement. The Minister envisioned a robust coordination structure involving justice and anti-corruption institutions to actively participate in the development and management of anti-corruption and justice reform.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, commended the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC II) Programme for its impactful initiatives. Fagbemi anticipated that the program’s outcomes would bridge gaps in Criminal Justice and Administrative Reform, enhancing systems and structures in the justice sector.
In her welcome remarks, Fiona Rowley, Executive Director of International IDEA, elucidated that ROLAC Phase II is an EU-funded project designed to support Nigeria in meeting global commitments, such as the SDGs, and realizing national aspirations outlined in the National Development Plan, National Justice Policy, and National Anti-Corruption Strategy.
Rowley emphasized the significance of the fight against corruption and the reinforcement of the rule of law within the current administration’s 8-point agenda at the federal level. The launch event aimed to formally introduce the program to the Nigerian public, particularly key partners, seeking their commitment and active support for successful implementation in collaboration with International IDEA.
