The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has refuted claims that its Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, is under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
In a statement issued on Thursday, the NBTE described the report as “orchestrated by some staff of the NBTE who were being investigated for unwholesome practices and corruption.”
The statement further clarified the accreditation process, explaining that cash advances were traditionally provided to staff for physical accreditation.
The NBTE emphasised that all financial activities related to this process were thoroughly audited.
NBTE also denied any wrongdoing or violations of financial regulations, stating that the payments made by institutions involved additional components beyond cash advances, such as service charges and curriculum materials.
Additionally, the board defended the establishment of NBTE Consult Ltd, a company created to generate income through training and consultancy services, which was duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.
The NBTE addressed rumors about the sale of “luxury cars,” clarifying that the Executive Secretary inherited accident-prone vehicles and had to borrow a car before eventually purchasing 12 new vehicles with the agency’s capital budget.
The statement concluded by condemning the ongoing campaign against the Board, reiterating its commitment to transparency and focusing on its operations.
