Corruption as the factor undermining Nigeria’s progress
By Aliyu Ahmad
One of the most serious global concern of the world in 21th century is corruption, which from all aspects affects various institutions within our societies.However the participation differ from one society to another, but in Nigeria the participation with respect to leaders and individuals within the society has become an alarming issue.
Before the colonial masters entrust political independence system, Nigeria had inclination for worthy and corruption is very minimal. Due diligence and trust was appreciated, and illegal accumulated properties was highly treated as abomination in the society. The leadership was exemplary and the follower-ship valued and respect hard work and are dedication to maintain incorruptible society which is free from corruption
However, In today’s Nigeria, corruption has become new normal to many individuals from across different levels of sectors that continue to hinder the progress . It’s has been normalized to offer or accept bribes from individuals, looking for jobs and other related activities. A study conducted by the Nigerian corruption survey (NCS) 2017 published by the National Bureau for Statistics (NBS) reveals that “An overwhelming percentage of Nigerians will accept a bribe when offered or pay a bribe when demanded”.
However, According to the survey published by the NBS reports that only 5.3 per cent of Nigerian will either refuse to pay a bribe when asked to or refuse to accept when a bribe is offered to them. According to the NCS, the survey was conducted through direct experiences of corruption as reported by victims and opinion and also perception of citizens about the recent trends. The result of the survey which has now been published, revealed only 20 out of 100 people who were to pay bribe refused to comply. It also showed that majority of Nigerians (56 per cent) experience negative consequences after refusing to pay a requested bribe.
Nevertheless, Only 3.7 percent of those who who were asked to pay bribes reported their experience to an official authority. The survey revealed that people mainly pay bribes to either speed up procedure, receive preferential treatments or avoid the cancellation of public utilities.This survey highlights how deeply corruption has spread across Nigeria.
Therefore, Corruption runs through every level of Nigeria. From considerable contract fraud at the top, through petty bribery, money laundering schemes, embezzlement and seizing salaries from fake workers, it is estimated that corruption within the state apparatus costs the country billions of dollars every year. This trend has drastically effected Nigeria to achieve progress such as infrastructural development.
Additionally, corruption in Nigeria discourages investment, both domestic and foreign, due to concerns about corrupt practices delving more Nigerians into poverty because of scarcity of jobs due to the corruption in various institutions within the country.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s journey from a society that once valued diligence and stigmatized corruption to the current state of normalized bribery and dishonesty is a poignant reflection of the deep-rooted challenges faced by the nation. The alarming prevalence of corruption, as evidenced by the Nigerian Corruption Survey, underscores the urgent need for change. To unlock its true potential, Nigeria must foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership. By dismantling the current culture of accepting and offering bribes, the country can begin to rebuild the trust and integrity that are essential for progress. It is only through collective efforts, driven by the desire for a better future, that Nigeria can rise above the shadows of corruption and pave the way for a more prosperous and just society.
Aliyu Ahmad, Department of mass communication ABU Zaria.
