Farhan Khan
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has reported the most significant performance gains in its history, following major reforms introduced over the past two-and-a-half years. Newly released data shows a dramatic rise in recoveries, enhanced transparency, and major structural improvements across the organisation.
According to official statistics, NAB recovered Rs 883.58 billion from 1999 to February 2023. In sharp contrast, from March 2023 to October 2025, the bureau recovered Rs 8,397.75 billion—an increase of 947 percent. This means the last 30 months have produced nearly ten times more recoveries than the previous 23 years combined.
NAB operated with a budget of Rs 15.33 billion during this period, generating Rs 548 in recoveries for every rupee spent. Overall, the organisation’s total recoveries now stand at Rs 9,281.33 billion, with officials expecting another Rs 2,000 billion by the end of the year.
Officials attribute this performance to reforms introduced under the amended NAB law. These changes aim to improve efficiency, transparency, and fairness throughout the process. Key steps include the establishment of new complaint cells at NAB Headquarters and regional bureaus, and the opening of sub-offices in Gwadar and Chaman. The Pakistan Anti-Corruption Academy (PACA) has also been launched to support specialized training and research.
To ensure due process, accused persons now have the right to be heard at every stage of their case, while their identities remain confidential until a final decision is made. NAB has also created Accountability Facilitation Cells for parliamentarians and civil servants, as well as a Business Facilitation Cell for the corporate sector.
Technological upgrades have been central to the reforms. The bureau has introduced a complete e-office system, digital witness statements, and AI-driven analysis of financial evidence. A high-level committee has also been set up to identify and address weaknesses or errors in cases.
As a result of better screening and improved verification methods, the number of initial complaints has decreased from 2,338 per month to 1,639, indicating more credible reporting and refined processes.
Among NAB’s major achievements is the recovery of 4.53 million acres of state land worth Rs 8,000 billion through the Land Directorate. The bureau has also returned Rs 124.86 billion to victims of Ponzi schemes and fraudulent housing projects. Additionally, 21 major money laundering cases involving illegal assets worth Rs 118 billion are currently under investigation.
To strengthen international collaboration against corruption, NAB has signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with countries across the world.
