BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
Committed to the fight against corruption, a Non-governmental Organisation, Step Up Nigeria in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) has spotlighted the need for legal protection in support of whistleblowers.
To this end, the foundation has opened entries for Art and Media Competition ahead of the 2026 World Whistleblower Day scheduled for June 23.
Step Up Nigeria is a creative team that builds bridges between government and citizens to tackle corruption and improve the delivery of public services.
Addressing the media in Abuja, the Director of Programmes, Step Up Nigeria, Oluwaferanmi Iyanda said that the competition is an opportunity for youths to showcase their creativity and passion for transparency and accountability.
Iyanda noted that the initiative aligned with Article 33 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), which encouraged measures to protect individuals who reported corruption in good faith.
She said that the deadline for submission of entries had been extended to April 12, 2026, to allow more young Nigerians participate, stressing that participation is free.
"We seek to raise awareness, stimulate public interest, and inspire collective action against corruption.
"Participants can submit artwork, skits, songs, and more, highlighting the importance of whistleblowers and the need for legal protection," she added.
Iyanda said that the competition is open to Nigerian residents aged 15-35, and the competition runs from March to June 2026.
She enjoined the youth to be watchdogs, noting that advocacy for whistle blowing must start at the grassroots.
"It is not just about walks or sharing T-shirts or caps, but empowering young people to engage and bring about development," Iyanda added.
The director disclosed that five winners would emerge across categories including music, visual arts, skits, poetry and writing, with a total prize pool of N2 million.
She hinted that winning entries would also be featured in educational podcast episodes aimed at sustaining conversations on whistleblower protection.
The Spokesperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Dele Oyewale also emphasized the importance of whistleblowing in Nigeria's fight against corruption.
He informed that the anti-corruption crusade is a collective responsibility, and every Nigerian should see themselves as a major stakeholder.
"Our youth constitute a sizeable portion of the population and are crucial in gathering intelligence and promoting the cause," he added.
Oyewale encouraged young Nigerians to be passionate about combating corruption, emphasising that it's not just about financial incentives, but about creating a better future for the country.
The EFCC officer also addressed concerns about the whistleblower protection law, stating that while there are challenges, the commission is committed to protecting those who come forward with information.
"The commission has a robust framework for safeguarding whistleblowers and has successfully protected them in the past.
"We will continue to use available means to combat corruption while awaiting stronger laws and protections." he said.
The Communication Manager at Step Up Nigeria, Shekwogaza Kure stated that the initiative aims to shift the mindset around whistleblowing.
He said: "The World whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition is an act of courage that strengthens democracy. We want to build a culture where whistleblowing is seen not as a betrayal but as an act of courage."
Oyewale stated that the deadline for submissions has been extended till April 12, 2026, and winners will receive cash prizes and recognition.
The Deputy Director at NOA, Alhaji Mohammed Wase encouraged youths to speak out against corruption.
"If as a youth you are not speaking out against corruption, you are really killing yourself because the future belong to the youth," he said.
Comments
Post a Comment