Shettima urges CCB to remain apolitical, deepen digitisation drive

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to maintain strict neutrality and strengthen its ongoing digital reforms to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service.

He gave the charge on Friday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, when he received a delegation from the CCB led by its Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello.

Shettima stressed that the bureau must avoid political influence and uphold its independence in carrying out its mandate, warning against actions that could undermine its credibility.

“Remain steadfast. Be as apolitical as humanly possible and do your job as much as you can,” the Vice President said.

He also called for the full adoption of digital systems for asset declaration by public officers, noting that digitisation would eliminate delays associated with manual processes and align Nigeria with global best practices.

According to him, electronic filing would allow public officials to declare assets and liabilities remotely while reducing inefficiencies and unnecessary visits to CCB offices.

“There is no need for public officials thronging your offices trying to fill in some forms… You expect everyone to play by the rules,” he said.

Shettima added that a stronger, tech-driven CCB would play a key role in improving governance and Nigeria’s global image.

Earlier, the CCB Chairman, Dr. Bello, thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Vice President for supporting reforms within the bureau, including increased funding and ongoing digitisation efforts.