August 18, 2025 — Former President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has emphasized that building strong and independent institutions remains the most effective way to fight corruption across Africa.
Akufo-Addo made the call while delivering the Graduation Lecture at the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, during the passing-out ceremony of Course 33 on Monday. He stated that corruption thrives where institutions are weak, stressing that Africa’s progress depends on leaders strengthening governance systems rather than relying solely on personalities.
The former Ghanaian leader, who served as Guest Lecturer, argued that genuine accountability, transparency, and rule of law are vital pillars for national development. He urged African leaders to avoid politicizing the fight against corruption, warning that selective justice undermines trust in democracy and governance.
Akufo-Addo also called on graduates of the NDC to lead with courage and integrity in their future national assignments, noting that their training placed them at the forefront of safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and security.
The event was attended by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who also charged the graduates to uphold accountability in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Observers say Akufo-Addo’s remarks resonate strongly at a time when many African nations, including Nigeria, are battling corruption scandals that continue to hinder socio-economic progress.