During a press conference held in Gusau over the weekend, Dr. Murtala Bankano, the head of the tracking team, explained the objectives behind the exercise. He emphasized that the primary goal is to verify that the allocated funds are being used effectively to deliver quality projects that meet the intended standards. The initiative, known as the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative (CEPTI), was developed by the ICPC in partnership with several key organizations, including the Budget Office of the Federation, the National Institute for Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), media representatives, and other stakeholders. This collaborative effort aims to enhance accountability in the execution of federal projects nationwide.
Dr. Bankano further detailed that the eighth phase of the tracking exercise in Zamfara covers projects from six critical sectors: education, health, water resources, power, empowerment, and agriculture. These projects are located in various local government areas, including Shinkafi, Zurmi, Gummi, and Gusau. Preliminary findings from the exercise revealed that some projects were either incomplete or had significant discrepancies in their execution. The ICPC has called on the contractors responsible for these projects to return to site and address the identified issues promptly.
While the commission awaits a comprehensive report from the NIQS to assess the exact deficiencies in the projects, Dr. Bankano made it clear that contractors found to be in violation of agreed standards would be held accountable. He reiterated the ICPC’s commitment to ensuring that all constituency and executive projects are executed in line with established guidelines and specifications. The tracking exercise is not merely about identifying problems but also about fostering a culture of responsibility among contractors and government agencies involved in project implementation.
The initiative reflects the ICPC’s broader mandate to combat corruption and promote good governance. By closely monitoring these projects, the commission seeks to prevent mismanagement of public funds and ensure that infrastructure developments translate into tangible benefits for the people of Zamfara and other states across Nigeria. Dr. Bankano stressed that the exercise is a continuous process, with future phases expected to cover more projects and regions.
In addition to scrutinizing physical infrastructure, the ICPC is also paying attention to the empowerment components of these projects. Many of the initiatives are designed to provide skills training, employment opportunities, and other forms of support to local communities. The commission is keen on ensuring that these aspects are not neglected, as they play a crucial role in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the beneficiaries.
The media’s involvement in the tracking initiative is another critical element, as it helps to keep the public informed and fosters transparency. By reporting on the progress and challenges of these projects, journalists contribute to the accountability framework that the ICPC is striving to strengthen. Dr. Bankano acknowledged the role of the press in amplifying the commission’s efforts and encouraged continued collaboration between all stakeholders.
As the exercise progresses, the ICPC plans to engage more closely with community leaders and residents to gather firsthand feedback on the impact of the projects. This grassroots approach ensures that the voices of the people are heard and that their needs are prioritized in the implementation process. The commission remains resolute in its mission to curb corruption and promote development through diligent oversight and collective action.
