NACIWA Adopts Abuja Declaration for Anti-Corruption Efforts

On July 22, 2026, the Network of National Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) adopted the Abuja Leadership Declaration at the ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, during the NACIWA Mid-Year Leadership Conference 2026. The declaration, moved by Mr. Ola Olukoyede, President of NACIWA and Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was adopted by heads of anti-corruption institutions from 14 member nations.

It commits these institutions to operational independence, integrity, and accountability, resisting political interference in anti-corruption efforts. The declaration acknowledges the evolving corruption landscape in West Africa and emphasizes the importance of leadership in shaping organizational culture and driving reforms.

Additionally, it calls for the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence and digital technologies to enhance investigations and law enforcement, adhering to governance principles and data protection standards. The institutions also pledged to strengthen internal systems of integrity and transparency to maintain public trust in their anti-corruption mandates.