Perception of Corruption and Nepotism in Public Service in Nigeria, 2015-2023

This study examines the perception of corruption and nepotism within Nigeria's public service from 2015 to 2023, focusing on their prevalence, impacts on service delivery, and the perceived effectiveness of anti-corruption reforms. Utilising a descriptive survey method, questionnaire for data collection and principal-agent theory as the theoretical framework, 210 respondents provided insights into the entrenchment of unethical practices in public institutions and the effectiveness of existing anti-corruption initiatives. The study found that corruption and nepotism are widely viewed as pervasive and deeply embedded issues that significantly hinder the efficiency, accountability, and quality of service delivery in Nigeria's public sector. Despite various anti-corruption reforms, a substantial majority of respondents expressed skepticism about their impact, citing inadequate enforcement, political interference, and limited transparency as primary obstacles to reform efficacy. The findings suggest that Nigeria's anti-corruption strategies require substantial strengthening and a shift toward transparent, merit-based processes to effectively curb unethical practices. The study concludes that without comprehensive structural changes and more rigorous enforcement, public trust in Nigeria’s public institutions will remain low, limiting the potential for social and economic progress. The study recommends enhancing the independence and enforcement power of anti-corruption agencies, promoting transparency in recruitment and promotion, increasing public awareness and protections for whistleblowers, and integrating ethics training into public service induction programs. These measures are essential for fostering a culture of accountability and integrity in Nigeria's public sector, thereby improving service delivery and restoring public confidence.