President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Monday called for closer collaboration private organizations across the country with the Federal Government for an effective fight against corruption.

Saraki who gave the charge when he played host to the executive members of the Institute of Directors (IOD), led by its President/Chairman of Governing Council, Mr. Samuel Yemi Akeju, said it is part of the 8th Senate's Legislative Agenda to contribute maximally towards the elimination of corrupt tendencies in the country.

He told his guests that the Executive arm of government is on the same page with the National Assembly in resuscitating the economy, ensuring adequate security and alleviating unemployment across board.

According to him, "Our Agenda in the Senate and that of the present administration is geared towards improving the economic situation of our dear country, adequate security and fight against corruption.

"The fight against corruption is key to this administration and we are in full support of this task. I want to call on the Institute of Directors of Nigeria to join the fight in every capacity to bring to normalcy ways of doing things and take our nation out of economic doldrums," he said.

Saraki recalled that the 8th Senate from inception have been an inclusive Senate, "We had meetings with players in Public and private sectors on how to amend our outdated laws and make them acceptable and blend with the modern trend.

"That is the major reason why we seek collaboration and support of private organizations and bodies like Institute of Directors of Nigeria in ensuring that government's actions and approaches are directed towards providing better lives Nigerians," Saraki stressed.

Earlier, the President of IOD, Mr. Samuel Yemi Akeju said the 8th Senate since inception has lived up to the yearnings of the people in terms of professionalism and legislation adding that if sustained, it will give room for best practices in all ramifications of governance.

Akeju who unfolded the purpose of the visit to the Senate President said the Institute has agreed to present a draft Bill to the National Assembly on the workings of the Institute saying the Bill when passed into Law will further boost the day to day activities in the business world.

He said that the IOD, as a foremost organization in the country, will continue to play the leadership role saying over the last two years, the Institute has inducted over 800 Directors just as he suggested a mandatory membership for lawmakers in the National Assembly.

Signed:

Sanni Onogu

Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President