Nigeria’s oil sector has long been shaped by elite politics and systemic corruption. Since the discovery of oil by Shell-BP in 1956 at Oloibiri, Bayelsa State, extractive activities have expanded across the Niger Delta, impacting the region’s environment and communities. Despite Nigeria being Africa’s largest oil producer and the sixth-largest global exporter, the country grapples with the “resource curse,” where oil wealth has not translated into broad economic or social development. Host communities in the Niger Delta face environmental degradation, loss of livelihoods, and health risks due to oil spills and gas flaring. Meanwhile, the failure of regulatory frameworks and policies has allowed elites to exploit the sector for personal gain, fostering a deep-rooted culture of corruption. This elite-driven agenda prioritizes the interests of multinational oil companies over the welfare of local communities, leaving the latter impoverished despite decades of booming oil revenue that accounts for over 85% of export earnings and at least 60% of Nigeria’s annual budget. Download Here

Adele JINADU Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Centre for Democracy & Development, Abuja “Corruption will continue to thrive until justice systems can punish wrongdoing and keep governments in check. When justice is bought or politically interfered with, it is the people that suffer. Leaders should fully invest in and guarantee the independence of institutions that uphold the law and tackle corruption. It is time to end impunity for corruption.” ——————François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International DOWNLOAD PRESENTATION HERE

Welcome to the latest edition of the Unresolved Corruption Allegation and Scandal in Nigeria, a testament to HEDA’s unwavering commitment to fostering transparency and accountability within government systems. As we embark on this journey, our dedication to combating the flagrant abuse of office and the mismanagement of public funds remains steadfast. Through this Unresolved Corruption Allegation and Scandal in Nigeria, we aim to empower individuals with vital information and insights, driving positive change and upholding the principles of good governance. Join us in our mission to promote integrity and uphold the public trust. Download Unresolved Corruption Allegation and Scandal in Nigeria    

This policy brief, Power & Justice: Leading the Onslaught Against Corruption by the HEDA Resource Centre with support from the MacArthur Foundation, draws from discussions and recommendations at the 30th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR) held on July 11-12, 2023, in Abuja. The theme was “Reviewing the Fight Against Corruption: From Buhari’s Regime to Setting the Agenda for the Tinubu Administration.” This policy briefs seeks to provide strategic recommendations to the Presidency as well as the Federal Ministry of Justice in relation to constructive engagement on the fight against corruption by the new government. Addressed to the Nigerian judiciary, the policy brief contextualizes corruption’s implications within Nigeria, argues that the Presidency and FMOJ in ensuring a successful fight against corruption cannot be over-emphasized as combine efforts to champion anti-corruption campaign sends a powerful message of commitment and accountability. Recognizing challenges, inter-agency rivalry; the abuse of nolle prosequi by Attorney General of the Federation as well as the lack of trust in government by members of the public, among others. The policy recommends appointing individuals with integrity as Attorney Generals; activation of Article 21 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights; engaging the civil society as well as enhancing feedback mechanism; special anti-corruption courts vibrant and accountable civil service, effective implementation of anti-corruption framework such as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).   Click Here to Download a copy of Power & Justice: Leading the Onslaught Against Corruption