The World Bank Group has announced a 30-month debarment of two Nigerian companies – Viva Atlantic Limited and Technology House Limited – and their Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Norman Didam. This action follows an investigation that uncovered fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices by the entities during the implementation of the National Social Safety Nets Project in Nigeria.
The investigation revealed that Viva Atlantic Limited, Technology House Limited, and Mr. Didam engaged in unethical behavior, including misrepresenting a conflict of interest in their bids, accessing confidential tender information from public officials, and submitting falsified documents. These actions not only undermined the integrity of the procurement process but also jeopardized the effectiveness of the project, which aimed to provide targeted financial assistance to vulnerable Nigerians.
“The debarment is in connection with fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices as part of the National Social Safety Nets Project in Nigeria,” the World Bank stated in a press release. “These actions were fraudulent and corrupt practices, respectively.”
As part of their settlement agreements, the debarred entities have acknowledged their culpability and agreed to specific conditions, including enhanced compliance measures and participation in corporate ethics training programs. The World Bank emphasized that the debarment periods were reduced due to the companies’ cooperation during the investigation and their voluntary acceptance of the sanctions.
This action underscores the World Bank’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in all its operations. The bank stressed that zero tolerance for corruption is essential to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of development projects and to safeguard the interests of the beneficiaries.Sources and related content
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