The World Bank has imposed a 30-month ban on two Nigerian companies—Viva Atlantic Limited and Technology House Limited—as well as their Managing Director and CEO, Mr Norman Bwuruk Didam.
The sanction follows findings of fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices linked to the National Social Safety Nets Project (NSSNP).
According to the World Bank’s statement released on Monday, the infractions occurred during the procurement process and subsequent contracts in 2018.
The Washington-based institution disclosed that the firms, along with Didam, concealed a conflict of interest in their bidding process and obtained confidential tender information from public officials.
These actions were classified as violations of the World Bank’s Anticorruption Framework.
Further investigations revealed that Viva Atlantic Limited and Mr Didam fabricated experience records, submitted counterfeit manufacturer authorization letters, and offered inducements to project officials, which the World Bank described as corrupt practices.
As part of the settlement, the firms and their CEO admitted to the misconduct and agreed to implement stringent integrity compliance measures to qualify for reinstatement after the ban.
During the 30 months, the entities are prohibited from participating in projects financed by the World Bank Group.
The sanctions underscore the institution’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and ensuring accountability in its funded initiatives.