The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has called for a unified African strategy rooted in strategic diplomacy to combat illicit financial flows (IFFs) and recover stolen assets.
Speaking at the inaugural African Asset Recovery Practitioners’ Forum (AARP-FORUM) held in Nairobi, Kenya, Dr. Aliyu, who also chairs the Forum’s Interim Steering Committee, emphasized the need for coordinated diplomatic efforts and stronger legal frameworks to ensure effective asset recovery.
Dr. Aliyu highlighted Africa’s historical exploitation—from slavery and colonialism to present-day financial crimes—and stressed that only a collective response could challenge the reluctance of some global North countries to cooperate on asset recovery, particularly regarding Mutual Legal Assistance.
He expressed concern over the low participation of North African nations and warned about the recurring problem of recovered assets being misappropriated due to weak governance structures in some African states. He urged the implementation of transparent and accountable oversight mechanisms.
Dr. Aliyu hailed the AARP-FORUM as a landmark initiative, promoting collaboration, sharing of best practices, and unified advocacy on asset recovery. He outlined next steps, including capacity-building workshops, a digital asset tracing platform, and diplomatic engagements with global institutions such as the UN.
The Forum resolved to ensure that all recovered funds are tracked, audited, and reinvested into key development sectors like education, health, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
The initiative marks a significant step in implementing the Common African Position on Asset Recovery (CAPAR), which was launched in Arusha, Tanzania, in November 2024. Nigeria, through the ICPC, continues to lead Africa’s anti-corruption efforts on the global stage.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Aliyu declared, “This is a call to action. Africa must reclaim its wealth, assert its sovereignty, and lead the fight against financial crimes.”;
