By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Borno State Office, has engaged youths to work together in the fight against corruption for sustainable development.

This was disclosed on Tuesday by the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Borno state, Linus Gubbi Matashi while delivering his speech at the International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 in Maiduguri — a day dedicated to reflection, action, and commitment to the values that uphold society.

Themed: ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity’, the Commissioner said, corruption is not just a policy issue — it is a moral and social challenge that erodes trust, hinders development, and deepens inequality.

He reiterated that corruption, in all its forms erodes trust, breaks down institutions, hinders development and robs communities of prosperity and hope.

According to him, there is good news that ICPC also see potential, especially in Nigerian young people who are the leaders of tomorrow.

He described youths in Borno as resilient, energetic, innovative, and bold enough. Therefore, investing in young people and engaging them as active partners according to him, would strengthen the moral fabric of the future and sustainable development.

Matashi added that the fight against corruption is not a task for government alone, but a collective responsibility in which the voices and actions of the youth are essential.

His words: “Today, we gather in solidarity to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 — a day dedicated to reflection, action, and commitment to the values that uphold our society. Our theme this year, ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity’, could not be more timely or relevant.

“Corruption is not just a policy issue — it is a moral and social challenge that erodes trust, hinders development, and deepens inequality. Corruption, in all its forms erodes trust, breaks down institutions, hinders development and robs communities of prosperity and hope. But there is good news — we also see potential, especially in our young people.

“The youths of today are the leaders of tomorrow. They are energetic, innovative, and bold. By investing in them and engaging them as active partners, we strengthen the moral fabric of our future. The fight against corruption is not a task for government alone — it is a collective responsibility in which the voices and actions of the youth are essential.

“Integrity is not a one-time act; it is a lifestyle. For the Nigeria we dream of, and for the Borno State we cherish, we must embed honesty and accountability into our institutions and our daily lives.

“The youths are torchbearers of integrity and must build a culture where honesty is celebrated, transparency is demanded, and accountability is non-negotiable.

” Your social media platforms, your schools, your workplaces, and your communities can become hubs of integrity if you choose to lead by example. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Borno State Office, stands ready to work hand-in-hand with you — through education, sensitization, and community partnerships — to create an environment where corruption finds no fertile ground.

” Together, we can replace a culture of impunity with a culture of accountability.

“In conclusion, the future of Borno State and Nigeria belongs to those who choose the path of honesty, justice, and service”. The Commissioner stated.