Gift Acceptance Policy

Purpose: To ensure that employees maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency in their interactions with stakeholders, while promoting a positive and respectful work environment.

Scope:  This policy applies to all employees of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO).

 Principles of Gift Acceptance

1. Transparency: Employees must disclose any gifts received in the course of their work.
2. Integrity:  Employees must not accept gifts that could influence their judgments or create a conflict of interest.
3. Respect: Employees must respect the organization’s values and policies when accepting gifts.

   Guidelines for Gift Acceptance

1. Nominal value: Employees may accept gifts of nominal value that are given as a gesture of appreciation or goodwill. Therefore, individual staff should only accept gifts that are below five hundred Thousand Naira Only (500,000.00).
2. Disclosure: Employees must disclose any gifts received regardless of the value, to their supervisor or HR representative.
3. Prohibited Gifts: Employees must not accepts gifts that:

-Could be perceived as bribes or kickbacks.

-Are from individual or organizations with a vested interest in the employee’s work.

     4. Gifts from external parties: Employees may accept gifts from external parties (e.g. clients and vendors) if they are:

-Given in appreciation of services rendered.

-Of nominal value

-Not conditional on specific actions or decisions.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action such as suspension, denial of promotion or termination of employment as the case may be.

Reporting Requirements

Employees must report any gifts received to their Head of Department/Unit within 7days.

Review and Update

This policy document will be reviewed and updated annually or as needed.      

By following this policy, the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) aims to maintain a culture of high ethical standard characterized by integrity, transparency, respect and zero tolerance for corruption in the Institute.

Property of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO)

2025