The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) is gearing up for the phased rollout of its Online Assets and Liabilities Declaration System (OALDS) nationwide. According to CCB Chairman Abdullahi Bello, significant progress has been made following feedback from a recent stakeholder validation exercise. The system aims to modernise assets declaration and improve transparency in the public service.
The validation exercise, which was recently concluded, received positive feedback from participants who offered valuable suggestions that have been incorporated into the system. Mr Bello stated that the platform is now on track for a phased national rollout in the coming weeks. He emphasized the importance of Heads of Service across the states and the FCT in the success of the initiative, describing them as key leaders in public sector human resource management.
Senate Committee Chairman on Code of Conduct, Ethics and Public Petitions, Neda Imasuen, commended Mr Bello for bringing renewed energy to the bureau. Imasuen stressed the importance of transparency and the rule of law in any enduring society, urging states to adopt peer review mechanisms to strengthen compliance across jurisdictions. House Committee Chairman on Anti-Corruption, Kayode Akiolu, described the code of conduct as a national social contract guiding ethical public service.
The event featured technical sessions and zonal discussions to identify compliance gaps and develop actionable commitments. The engagement was supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption programme of International IDEA, with representatives from EFCC, ICPC, NFIU, and the Federal Ministry of Justice in attendance.
The phased rollout of the OALDS is a crucial step towards strengthening institutional integrity in the public service. By making assets declaration a standard administrative practice, the CCB aims to promote transparency and accountability. However, the success of this initiative hinges on the commitment of Heads of Service across the states and the FCT. The House of Representatives' pledge to support stronger legislation and increased funding for the CCB is a welcome development. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the OALDS will depend on its ability to withstand the test of time and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
