The World Bank has imposed a 30-month debarment on two Nigerian companies, Viva Atlantic Limited and Technology House Limited, along with their Managing Director and CEO, Norman Bwuruk Didam, over alleged corrupt practices. This decision effectively bars them from participating in any World Bank Group-financed projects or operations during the sanction period.

Findings and Context

The World Bank’s decision stems from an investigation into fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices linked to the National Social Safety Nets Project (NSSNP) in Nigeria. The NSSNP aims to enhance Nigeria’s social safety net systems by providing financial transfers to poor and vulnerable households.

The Washington-based financial institution detailed its findings in a statement, highlighting the serious violations of its Anti-Corruption Framework. The breaches were discovered during the 2018 procurement process and subsequent contract implementation.

Specific Violations

The investigation revealed the following violations by Viva Atlantic Limited, Technology House Limited, and Norman Didam:

• Conflict of Interest: The companies misrepresented a conflict of interest in their bid submissions.
• Accessing Confidential Information: They improperly obtained confidential tender information from public officials, which constitutes collusive practices.
• Falsified Documentation: Viva Atlantic Limited falsified its experience records and submitted forged manufacturer’s authorization letters.
• Corruption: Both the company and its CEO offered inducements to public officials involved in the project.

These practices were in direct violation of the principles outlined in the World Bank’s Anti-Corruption Framework.

Settlement Agreements

In response to the allegations, the parties entered settlement agreements with the World Bank, acknowledging their culpability. They agreed to comply with stringent integrity conditions to be eligible for release from debarment after the sanction period.

Official Statement

The World Bank’s statement elaborated:

“The debarment of Viva Atlantic Limited, Technology House Limited, and Mr. Norman Bwuruk Didam is in connection with fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices as part of the National Social Safety Nets Project in Nigeria.

According to the case facts and principles of the World Bank’s Anti-Corruption Framework, the parties misrepresented conflicts of interest, accessed confidential tender information, falsified experience records, and offered inducements to public officials. These actions constitute fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices.”

Broader Implications

The World Bank emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward corruption in projects it finances, reiterating its commitment to ensuring accountability and integrity in its operations. This case serves as a warning to other entities engaged in World Bank-financed initiatives to adhere strictly to ethical standards.

Next Steps

As part of the integrity compliance conditions, the debarred entities must implement reforms to prevent future breaches. If they meet these conditions, they may be eligible to resume participation in World Bank projects after the 30-month debarment period.