The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology will continue to lend its support to the anti-corruption crusade of the present administration,
the Minister, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, has said.
He stressed that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) is critical in the fight against corruption in Nigeria as intelligence gathering and timely administration of judgment require science and technology.
Onu, spoke when he received the executive of the National Anti-corruption Marathon 2020 in his office on Friday in Abuja.
He described corruption as detrimental to the development of the country, adding that the scourge has eaten into many facets of our national life.
He said his Ministry was fully committed to supporting President Buhari administration’s fight against corruption, adding that STI would beam the light on corrupt practices and prevent criminal activities.
According to the Minister, his ministry will support President Muhammadu Buhari achieve his campaign promise of fighting corruption, build a stronger economy and strengthen national security.
He said: “I want to reiterate that the fight against corruption is not to be left to government alone. The real fight is a challenge for citizens to take up; most especially at our respective offices and the home front by instilling good virtues to our citizens.’’
The Minister said sporting activities is very crucial to anti-corruption war, and it is a powerful tool to mobilize and unite people to see the inherent dangers of corruption to the society.
In a remark, the national coordinator of the National Anti-Corruption Marathon Mr. Jacob Onu said the purpose of the Marathon event was to create awareness on the dangers of corruption to our nation.
He further said the exercise will strengthen unity among the citizens and expose new talents that will represent the nation in major marathon tournaments around the world.
In his own remarks, the General Manager Africa Union Sports Council Region 2, Mr. Caleb Gidado said the marathon was a welcome idea to help fight the scourge of corruption in Africa.
He hailed the pedigree of Buhari as a champion of anti-corruption in Africa and expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the immense support to the upcoming event.