The Federal Government's initiative to deploy advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) for verifying assets and flagging unexplained wealth among public servants has been hailed as a critical step in Nigeria's protracted fight against corruption. The move comes as the nation grapples with the devastating economic and social consequences of graft, which has stifled development and tarnished its international reputation.
AI as a Game-Changer in Asset Declaration
Dr. Abubakar Bello, Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), recently announced that the online tool is scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2026. This system will allow public servants to declare their assets remotely from any global location. Its potency lies in its planned integration with crucial national databases, including the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Bank Verification Number (BVN) system, and various land registries.
This technological intervention is deemed essential given corruption's staggering cost. A Chatham House estimate, cited by The Economist, indicates that $582 billion was stolen from Nigeria between 1960 and 2019. Another report noted over $200 billion lost to fraud between 1970 and 2008. The direct link between this leakage and national poverty is undeniable, with an estimated 130 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty due largely to diverted resources meant for infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The Imperative for an Unbiased Crusade
For any anti-corruption effort to gain public trust, it must be perceived as transparent, accountable, and free from political bias. Citizens yearn for a return to an era when the fight was pursued without fear or favour, exemplified by the prosecution of a serving Inspector-General of Police and the jailing of two former governors. The current climate, however, is rife with suspicions of selectivity and political witch-hunts.
The ongoing prosecution of former Attorney General of the Federation, Shehu Malami, has become a litmus test for the system's integrity. Malami faces 16 criminal counts for allegedly laundering N8 billion and is accused of owning about 30 high-value properties worth approximately N212.8 billion. His supporters allege his prosecution is motivated by his defection to the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), claiming he would have been shielded had he remained with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The EFCC must practically debunk these claims through diligent, evidence-based prosecution.
This perception of a two-tiered system is fueled by other prominent cases. For instance, the corruption case against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, involving alleged diversion of over N100 billion from Akwa Ibom State, appeared to lose momentum after he joined the APC. Similarly, while the EFCC pledged to challenge the Supreme Court's technical nullification of the conviction of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Nigerians are still waiting for visible action on the retrial.
Towards a Transparent and Conclusive Fight
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reported significant recoveries, including over N566 billion, $411 million, and 1,502 properties within two years. While these are commendable, the ultimate measure of success is conclusive justice that deters future looting.
Fundamental reforms are required to insulate anti-corruption agencies from political influence. Appointments must ensure true independence, and investigations must be thorough to avoid legal loopholes that allow the guilty to escape. The interest of over 200 million Nigerians, who are the ultimate victims of corruption, must supersede the interests of a privileged few in government corridors.
The deployment of AI in 2026 presents a powerful tool, but technology alone cannot win this war. It must be underpinned by an unwavering political will to prosecute all cases to their logical conclusion, regardless of the accused person's political affiliation or status. There must be no sacred cows. Only a diligent, sentiment-free campaign can restore public trust and ensure that recovered resources are channeled towards the nation's meaningful development.
