The Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has expressed concern over the lack of ethical principles in ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government. This observation was made following the unveiling of the 2025 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS) and the ACTU Effectiveness Index (AEI) across Federal Government MDAs.

The ICPC’s assessment of 344 MDAs revealed that none achieved full ethical compliance, with only 48 demonstrating substantial compliance. The report showed that 132 MDAs recorded partial compliance, while 141 showed poor compliance, and 23 fell under non-compliance. Additionally, 13 MDAs were non-responsive and classified as high-risk.

The commission’s findings highlighted significant gaps in the systems and structures of MDAs, including the lack of core values, mission, and vision statements, as well as domesticated policies on gift acceptance and hospitality. Many MDAs also failed to conduct monitoring and evaluation of their activities, and some did not have strategic plans or monitoring systems in place.

The report further revealed that 169 MDAs lacked guidelines on granting advances to staff, while 114 did not render financial reports to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation. Moreover, 41 MDAs failed to carry out internal audit activities, and 96 did not submit their annual audited accounts to the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation and the National Assembly.

The ICPC’s assessment of the ACTU Effectiveness Index showed that 33 Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units (ACTUs) were rated “Very Effective,” while 142 were rated “Ineffective.” The commission noted that weak administrative systems, poor whistleblowing frameworks, inadequate training, and underperforming ACTUs undermine the public sector’s ability to operate transparently and efficiently.

The ICPC’s findings indicate that despite some improvements in financial management, many MDAs still lack the basic systems and capacities required to prevent corruption. The commission’s report emphasizes the need for MDAs to establish and implement effective systems and structures to promote transparency and accountability. The ICPC’s assessment is a significant step towards promoting good governance and combating corruption in the public sector.