Corruption remains a persistent challenge in Nigeria, affecting various facets of life and governance.
The 2023 report from the National Bureau of Statistics provides a comprehensive look at the state of corruption in the country, revealing critical trends and areas needing urgent attention.
Approximately 56% of Nigerians had contact with public officials in the past year, a slight decrease from 63% in 2019.
NBS
Public Interaction and Corruption Prevalence
The report highlights a significant interaction between Nigerians and public officials, with approximately 56% of the population engaging with at least one public official over the past year.
This marks a decline from 63% in 2019, suggesting a potential reduction in public reliance on official services or an improvement in access to services without direct interaction. Urban residents reported higher interaction rates (61%) compared to their rural counterparts (52%).
Sectors Most Affected
Among the sectors most affected by corruption, healthcare professionals and public utilities officers were at the forefront, followed closely by police officers.
These findings underscore the critical need for targeted anti-corruption measures within these areas, given their essential roles in public welfare and safety.
Perception and Reality
While the report documents a decline in interactions, it also sheds light on the nuanced nature of corruption.
Bribery and unofficial payments continue to undermine the integrity of public services, affecting citizens’ trust and the overall effectiveness of governance.
