Ensure corrupt-free workplace, ICPC charges workers

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has charged the management and staff of the Bureau of Public Enterprises including other government agencies to shun corrupt practices but enhance productivity.

Chairman of the commission, Dr Musa Aliyu, while speaking in Abuja at the BPE 2024 SERVICOM Day Symposium said corruption in the workplace manifests in the form of bribery, embezzlement, fraud, kickbacks, nepotism, which reduces productivity, undermines morale, engenders reputational damage and may lead to financial losses.

Aliyu, who was represented by the Head of Reforms/Servicom Unit, ICPC, Mrs Azuka Ogugua, explained that excellent service delivery does not just happen but has to be worked on and worked out.

He noted that if this is not done, service failure will occur, adding that service failure can be caused by a number of factors including bad attitude to work, negative work ethics including corruption.

Aliyu noted that to curb corruption at the workplace, corruption prevention methods must be imbibed to enhance productivity and effective service delivery.

“As you deliberate about how to change attitudes and behaviours towards excellent service delivery, let us also consider how to implement corruption prevention measures that will remove/reduce the opportunities for corruption and make it easier for people to do the right thing through proper guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures, incentives, etc,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Mr Ayodele Gbeleyi, emphasised the need for ethics, which he said will help to create a positive and productive work environment.

Gbeleyi noted that in today’s dynamic business environment, attitudinal and behavioural ethics in the workplace play a pivotal role in shaping organizational culture, driving employee engagement, and fostering trust among stakeholders.

“If we are to achieve success in our various endeavours and contribute meaningfully to national growth and development, there is no better time to discuss a topic of this nature than today. The impact of these ethics can be far-reaching, influencing employee behaviour, organisational culture, and overall service excellence.”

He noted that the official theme for the 2024 SERVICOM Customer Service Week is “Above and Beyond,” adding that it highlights the importance of frontline service providers.

This, he said, emphasizes team spirit within the workforce, and underscores its positive impact on the Bureau which raises awareness of the value of excellent customer service in their operations.

He further charged members of staff of the bureau to align themselves with the “Above and Beyond the common level of service” while delivering on Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“If we are to meet and exceed expectations and fully align with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, our achievements must indeed go ‘Above and Beyond the common level of service.

“The bureau is committed to delivering on its mandate, and we pledge to uphold our core values (Integrity-Transparency, Professionalism, Accountability, Result-Orientation, and Teamwork, which are aligned with the goals of SERVICOM.”

The National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer, SERVICOM, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, stated that staff attitude plays a crucial role in shaping the workplace environment and overall organizational success.