The European Union has said it had spent a total of 88 million euros to support Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts since 2005, even as it announced another 30 million euros to improve the rule of law, tackle corruption, and reduce gender-based violence in the country for the next five years. The EU Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the formal launch of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC Phase II) Programme, implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) and funded by the European Union.
Ms Isopi said the programme would be implemented at the federal level and in five states, such as Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, and Lagos.
She also noted that 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had so far domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibiting (VAPP) Act 2015 to curb violence in states.
“The programmed is aimed at supporting the strengthening of the rule of law and the fight against corruption,” Ms Isopi said.
“It is also aimed at reducing gender0based violence while promoting respect for human rights and ensuring inclusivity for all Nigerians.”
She said 1.5 million Nigerians were covered in the programme’s first phase, adding that the second phase would be implemented in fives state for five years.
“The states are Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, and Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with the possibility of extension to two more states.
She highlighted the achievements of the first phase of the programme including setting up and strengthening policies and processes; increased implementation and compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice law; increased inter-agency cooperation in the fight against corruption and creating synergies between government and civil society organisations; increased access to justice for survivors of Sexual and Gender Based Violence, through the establishment of sexual assault referral centres and Special GBV courts as well as improved protection of the rights of children.
