A Civil Society Organization, The Accountability Front has commended the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for its reported investigation into corruption allegations involving the management of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), urging the anti-graft agency to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion.
In a letter dated August 14, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of the ICPC in Abuja, the organisation expressed what it described as its “profound appreciation” for the commission’s intervention, saying the investigation was important to strengthening accountability and transparency in public service.
Signed by its Coordinator, M. Kazallaha, the Accountability Front said the probe would help safeguard public resources and protect the integrity of an institution responsible for promoting Nigeria’s non-oil exports and supporting the country’s trade and economic development.
The organisation also declared its solidarity with the ICPC and commended the investigators for what it described as professionalism and diligence in handling the allegations.
It urged the commission to remain resolute and ensure that the investigation was conducted meticulously, with justice not only being done but also being seen to be done.
The latest development comes against the backdrop of a series of allegations previously raised against the leadership of the NEPC, including concerns over financial management, procurement, personnel administration and official travels.
Among the allegations contained in earlier petitions and complaints was a claim of possible diversion or misapplication of about ₦500 million, reportedly representing approximately 20 per cent of quarterly subvention. The allegation remains subject to investigation and has not been established as fact.
There have also been allegations concerning the redeployment or replacement of procurement personnel and claims relating to payments allegedly made through point-of-sale channels.
Other concerns raised in previous complaints included the alleged appointment of retired personnel to contractual positions, alleged irregularities involving personnel records, nepotism and abuse of office.
Travel expenditure has also featured prominently in the complaints. Previous allegations referenced an Auditor-General-related query of ₦230,540,843 reportedly associated with foreign travel expenditure in 2024.
The allegations have also included claims of staff intimidation and concerns over the administration of an alleged oath of secrecy to some personnel. These claims remain allegations and require verification by the appropriate authorities.
The controversy has attracted attention because of the strategic role of the NEPC in Nigeria’s economic development agenda.
The council is expected to support exporters, develop non-oil export value chains, facilitate access to international markets and strengthen partnerships capable of increasing foreign exchange earnings.
Concerns have therefore been raised that any proven financial or administrative misconduct within the institution could undermine confidence in its operations and potentially affect programmes designed to support exporters and diversify Nigeria’s economy.
Previous complaints have also alleged that internal management decisions and disputes may have affected relationships with some international development and trade partners, including organisations associated with GIZ, the Commonwealth Bank/CBI, KOICA and JETRO.
Those claims have not been judicially established and remain part of the issues requiring verification by relevant investigative authorities.
Calls for Transparency
The Accountability Front said it would continue to follow the case closely and urged the ICPC to conduct a comprehensive investigation capable of establishing the facts and determining responsibility where wrongdoing is proven.
The organisation stressed that accountability should apply irrespective of the status of the individuals involved.
It also called for a process that would allow those accused to respond to the allegations, while ensuring that any public resources found to have been mismanaged are recovered and that responsible persons are held accountable in accordance with the law.
The renewed attention on NEPC management comes at a time when the Federal Government is placing increased emphasis on non-oil exports, local production and economic diversification.
The outcome of the investigation could therefore have implications beyond the individuals named in the allegations, particularly in relation to public confidence in the institution and its ability to deliver on its mandate.
The Accountability Front said it expects the investigation to be pursued transparently and concluded in accordance with the law.
