President’s message for international anti-corruption day 2025
As we commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 under the theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”, we are reminded that the youth play a pivotal role in promoting integrity and reinforcing the foundations of good governance within our sub-region. In West Africa, where approximately 61.4% of the population is under the age of 25, action against corruption is imperative – empowering youth as guardians of integrity fortifies the foundation for sustainable, inclusive development.
Corruption continues to impose a high cost on development. Globally, the United Nations reports that as much as USD 2.6 trillion, making up about 5% of world GDP, is lost annually to corrupt practices. The World Economic Forum estimates that developing countries alone lose an estimated USD 1.26 trillion every year through corruption and illicit financial flows. These losses represent schools not built, hospitals left unequipped and jobs not delivered. Most critically, they deprive our youth of the enabling environment they deserve to build better lives.
At EBID, we recognise that tackling corruption is a shared responsibility which requires collaboration among governments, development finance institutions, the private sector, and young people. To advance this common effort, I call on all stakeholders to take the following targeted actions:
For Public Sector
- Ensure consistent enforcement of anti-corruption laws.
- Digitalise public procurement processes to improve transparency.
For Banks and Financial Institutions
- Enhance due diligence, compliance and anti–money laundering controls.
- Increase transparency in project information and financial reporting.
For the Private Sector
- Maintain transparent accounting and financial practices.
- Champion business-integrity initiatives and mentor young entrepreneurs on ethical conduct.
The Bank remains committed to upholding the highest standards of governance, reinforcing its internal safeguards, and ensuring that every resource mobilised contributes effectively to development in the ECOWAS Member States. However, it must be emphasised that no institution or individual or leader can combat corruption alone. We must act together, united in purpose and guided by integrity.
On this International Anti-Corruption Day, let us renew our collective resolve to build a region where transparency prevails, development thrives, and the aspirations of our youth are fully realised.
Let us unite and build a future of integrity for our region.
