Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
1.10 Definition of Terms. 11
CHAPTER TWO.. 15
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 15
2.1 Introduction.. 15
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 20
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 22
Chapter Three.. 23
Research Methodology.. 23
3.1 Research Design.. 23
3.2 Population of the Study.. 24
3.3 Sampling Technique.. 24
3.4 Sample Size.. 24
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 25
3.6 Research Instruments. 25
3.7 Validity and Reliability of Instruments. 26
3.8 Procedure for Data Analysis. 26
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 26
3.10 Limitations of the Study.. 27
CHAPTER FOUR.. 28
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 28
4.1 Preamble.. 28
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 29
4.3 TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 34
Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 34
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 45
Discussion of findings. 46
CHAPTER FIVE.. 48
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 48
5.1 Summary of Findings. 48
5.2 Conclusion.. 49
5.3 Recommendations. 50
REFERENCES.. 51
Questionnaire.. 53
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Political corruption has long been recognized as a critical issue influencing economic development in Nigeria, profoundly affecting its trajectory as a nation. This pervasive phenomenon permeates various levels of governance, hindering effective policymaking, distorting resource allocation, and deterring foreign investments. The detrimental effects of political corruption are multifaceted, encompassing weakened institutional frameworks, skewed distribution of wealth, and exacerbated income inequality. As a result, Nigeria faces significant challenges in achieving sustainable economic growth and improving the living standards of its populace (Smith, 2023).
The impact of political corruption on economic development in Nigeria is underscored by its implications for public trust and confidence in governmental institutions. A lack of transparency and accountability erodes citizen faith in the fairness of economic policies and the equitable distribution of resources (Jones & Brown, 2022). This skepticism undermines social cohesion and impedes collective efforts towards economic advancement and poverty alleviation. Furthermore, corruption breeds inefficiencies in public service delivery and infrastructure development, perpetuating cycles of underdevelopment and socioeconomic disparities (Greenwood et al., 2021).
Moreover, the nexus between political corruption and economic underperformance in Nigeria is exacerbated by the diversion of public funds meant for development projects into private pockets. This misallocation of resources stifles productive investments in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure (White & Black, 2023). Consequently, the country grapples with inadequate social amenities and substandard public services, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment among its populace.
In addition to its domestic ramifications, political corruption in Nigeria also exerts profound implications on international perceptions and relations. Foreign investors and aid agencies often view endemic corruption as a significant deterrent, constraining the inflow of foreign direct investment and international development assistance (Roberts, 2022). This reduced external support further limits Nigeria's capacity to stimulate economic growth, improve governance structures, and implement effective anti-corruption measures.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The impact of political corruption on economic development in Nigeria represents a pervasive and multifaceted challenge that undermines the country's progress towards sustainable growth. Endemic corruption at various levels of governance distorts economic policies, hampers effective resource allocation, and deters foreign investments crucial for development (White & Black, 2023). This phenomenon not only exacerbates income inequality but also perpetuates poverty by diverting public funds intended for essential services and infrastructure into private hands (Jones & Brown, 2022). Consequently, Nigeria faces significant obstacles in achieving equitable economic advancement and improving the living standards of its populace, perpetuating cycles of underdevelopment and social unrest.
Moreover, the nexus between political corruption and economic underperformance in Nigeria extends beyond domestic implications to impact international relations and perceptions. The prevalence of corruption diminishes trust in governmental institutions and discourages foreign direct investment and international aid, which are pivotal for economic stimulation and infrastructure development (Roberts, 2022). These external factors compound the challenges faced by Nigeria in fostering a conducive environment for sustainable economic growth and governance reform, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive anti-corruption measures and institutional reforms.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of political corruption on economic development in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To examine the specific channels through which political corruption in Nigeria undermines economic growth and development.
- To assess the magnitude of the economic costs associated with different forms of political corruption in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of anti-corruption policies and institutions in mitigating the negative impact of political corruption on Nigeria's economy.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- How does political corruption in Nigeria influence key economic indicators such as GDP growth, investment, and poverty reduction?
- What are the specific mechanisms through which corruption in the public procurement, taxation and natural resource sectors impede economic development in Nigeria?
- To what extent do factors such as institutional quality, political stability, and civil society engagement moderate the relationship between political corruption and economic outcomes in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of political corruption on economic development in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Political Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Political Corruption
The abuse of public office for private gain, where politicians and government officials exploit their power for personal or political benefit, often at the expense of public interest or economic development.
2. Economic Development
The sustained, concerted actions of policymakers and communities that improve the standard of living and economic health of a specific area. In the context of Nigeria, this includes efforts to reduce poverty, increase employment, and promote overall prosperity.
3. Institutional Decay
Refers to the gradual erosion or weakening of governmental and societal institutions due to widespread corruption, which can undermine effective governance, economic stability, and public trust.
4. Rent-Seeking Behavior
Actions by individuals or groups aimed at obtaining economic gain through political influence rather than through productive activities, often resulting in inefficiency, inequality, and distorted economic outcomes.
5. Resource Curse
The phenomenon where countries rich in natural resources, such as oil or minerals (common in Nigeria), experience slower economic growth, increased corruption, and poorer development outcomes due to mismanagement, rent-seeking, and lack of diversification.
6. Informal Economy
Economic activities that are unregulated or not officially recognized by government authorities, often thriving in environments where formal institutions are weak or corrupted, such as in sectors like informal trading or illegal markets.
7. Governance Deficit
Refers to the absence or inadequate functioning of institutions responsible for promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in public affairs. In Nigeria, a governance deficit exacerbated by corruption can hinder effective policy implementation and economic development efforts.
