NAB reforms yield record recoveries
NPLs in agri-business sector, unlike the previous year, contracted primarily owing to compliance with SBP regulations and better recovery efforts. Photo: file
Institutional reforms at the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) have yielded unprecedented results, with newly released data showing a dramatic surge in recoveries, enhanced transparency, and structural improvements across the organisation.
According to official statistics, NAB recovered Rs883.58 billion over 23 years, from its establishment in 1999 until February 2023. In contrast, during the last two-and-a-half years — from March 2023 to October 2025 — NAB achieved record recoveries of Rs8,397.75 billion, marking a 947% increase, nearly 10 times higher than the cumulative recoveries of the previous 23 years.
During this period, NAB operated with a budget of Rs15.33 billion, meaning every rupee spent generated Rs548 in recoveries. Overall, NAB's total recoveries now stand at Rs9,281.33 billion, with an additional Rs2,000 billion expected by the end of the current year.
Officials said these reforms were introduced under the amended NAB law to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Key measures include the establishment of new complaints cells at NAB Headquarters and regional bureaus, as well as sub-offices in Gwadar and Chaman. For research and specialised training, the Pakistan Anti-Corruption Academy (PACA) has also been launched.
To ensure fairness, accused persons now have the right to be heard at every stage, with their identities remaining confidential until a final decision is made. Special Accountability Facilitation Cells have been set up for parliamentarians and bureaucrats, while a dedicated Business Facilitation Cell has been created for the commercial sector.
The bureau has also implemented a complete e-office system, digital witness statements, and AI-driven financial evidence analysis. A high-level committee has been formed to identify and rectify errors or gaps in cases.
Following these reforms, the volume of initial complaints dropped significantly — from 2,338 per month to 1,639 — indicating improved screening and more credible reporting.
NAB highlighted major achievements, including the recovery of 4.53 million acres of state land worth Rs8,000 billion through the Land Directorate.