The National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services has been recognised as one of the 50 most ethically compliant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Nigeria, following a comprehensive assessment of public institutions across the country.
The Executive Director of NAERLS, Prof. Y. A. Sani, was honoured on April 24, 2026, with the Integrity Icon of Nigeria (IION) award. The recognition highlights his exemplary leadership and commitment to ethical standards in public service. The award was presented by Prince Salih Musa Yakubu, Executive Director of the Centre for Ethics and Self Value Orientation.
Speaking during the presentation at the NAERLS boardroom, Yakubu explained that his organisation conducted a 12-month investigation covering 250 strategic government agencies, evaluating their contributions to national development and adherence to ethical practices. According to him, only 50 agencies met the required standards for transparency, accountability, and quality service delivery.
“These agencies are classified as highly rated, ethically responsible, public service-compliant, and among the least corrupt MDAs,” Yakubu stated, noting that NAERLS earned its place among this select group.
In addition to the individual honour, NAERLS received a Certificate of Corporate Ethics and Integrity Compliance, having emerged second among parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Letters of commendation were also presented to principal officers of the institution for their professionalism and commitment to ethical public service administration.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Executive Director, the Deputy Director of NAERLS, Prof. M. M. Jaliya, expressed gratitude to the Centre for Ethics and Self Value Orientation for recognising the agency’s efforts. He emphasised the importance of collaborative action in combating corruption and promoting ethical standards across public institutions.
Jaliya noted that organisations like the Centre play a vital role in strengthening accountability frameworks, adding that sustained commitment to integrity is essential for achieving national development goals.
The recognition marks a significant milestone for NAERLS, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution in ethical governance and service delivery within Nigeria’s public sector.
