UI Vice-Chancellor Backs Stronger Collaboration With Code Of Conduct Bureau On Asset Declaration Compliance

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has described the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) as a critical institution for promoting accountability, transparency, and integrity in Nigeria’s public service system.

Professor Adebowale made the remarks while receiving the Oyo State Director of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Mr. Bolaji Johnson Amao, and members of his delegation during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor’s office.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, compliance with asset declaration regulations remains a fundamental component of ethical public service, stressing that the principles guiding the Code of Conduct system are essential for strengthening accountability within government institutions.

He noted that asset declaration represents the core responsibility of the Bureau and serves as a foundation for broader institutional integrity and transparency mechanisms.

Professor Adebowale assured the delegation of the university’s readiness to collaborate with the Bureau in sensitising staff members on the importance of compliance with the Code of Conduct requirements.

As part of that collaboration, he disclosed plans for a university-wide sensitisation programme that would allow officials of the Bureau to engage members of staff on asset declaration obligations and related compliance procedures.

Speaking during the visit, the Oyo State Director of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Mr. Bolaji Johnson Amao, stated that the purpose of the engagement was to strengthen cooperation with the university and improve staff compliance with Code of Conduct regulations.

He recalled that the Bureau previously conducted a compliance exercise within the university in 2017 but noted that only about 20 percent of distributed forms were returned, describing the response rate as unsatisfactory.

According to him, many public officers often fail to take Code of Conduct obligations seriously until issues arise, despite the administrative and legal implications attached to non-compliance.

Mr. Amao warned that failure to comply with asset declaration requirements could affect eligibility for promotion, appointments into higher offices, and participation in government activities, with some penalties extending to long-term disqualification.

He further stated that properties acquired through abuse of office or dishonest practices could be subject to forfeiture, noting that undeclared assets frequently raise concerns regarding concealment and misconduct.

The Director reiterated that the Bureau’s mandate is focused on promoting accountability, transparency, and integrity among public officers while preventing corruption and abuse of office.

He added that evidence of compliance with asset declaration procedures may increasingly become a mandatory requirement for promotion, salary processing, and employment-related documentation within the public service.

Mr. Amao also disclosed that the Bureau is transitioning from a paper-based asset declaration process to a digital platform, adding that work is currently ongoing to improve the functionality of its online declaration system.

The meeting ended with both institutions expressing commitment to sustained collaboration aimed at improving awareness and compliance with public service accountability standards.