Corruption in Nigeria

source: google

Most of the discussion in the newspaper today in Nigeria focus on the problem of corruption and its pervasive effect on our national life. It is a phenomenon which appears to have settled comfortably with us, more so that we now regard it. In a rather casual manner, as a normal way of life. One may then wish to ask what exactly is the complexion of the corruption in Nigeria? Why is it pervasive and how can it be minimized, if not completely eradicated? Corruption takes many forms in the country. Contract are not awarded on the objective criteria if professional competence and result of good feasibility studies. It is a matter if personal relationships, club affiliation or the expectations of some kickbacks. Loans are not given out by bank on the merit of what you need them for, it is the kick back from the loan that decide the manager approval. Those who need jobs either have to bribe their way through to get the jobs or they do not get any. Limited opportunities, the fast declining state of the economy, poor awareness of the right the state allows, dire needs and a host of the others have often been cited , have think of many suggestions that have offer for the alleviation of the problem. Some of the suggestions are practical while other appear unrealistic especially in the content of the present orientation in the country. However the view being held in this write up is that the problem if corruption can only be tackled by the application of some practical solutions. Thus we have to start with our leaders. It being suggested here that our leaders must learn to lead example. It is not enough for them to condemn corruption ;they themselves must not seen to involved in and dirty practice. This call for the great deal of honestly from them coupled with an appreciable degree of integrity and the readiness to help other without expecting to be cheaply rewarded. Our educational system needs a serious overhaul to achieve some positive results. The teaching programmes must include subject like civic and social studies which normally expose student to their right, the limit of such right and the virtue of good neighbourness . In addition we need radical reorientation with regard to our value system in our country.