Corruption in Nigeria is often spoken about as if it were a criminal act — something unusual, shameful, and punishable. But for many Nigerians, it feels more like culture. It has become so woven into everyday life that it’s almost seen as normal. This uncomfortable truth explains why tackling corruption remains Nigeria’s toughest challenge.
Everywhere you look — from public offices to private businesses — corruption seems to be the default way of getting things done. Bribery to speed up services, nepotism to secure jobs, and embezzlement of public funds happen not behind closed doors but openly, as if accepted practice. This is not just about a few bad apples; it’s a systemic problem deeply rooted in social habits and expectations.
Why has corruption become like culture? One reason is the failure of institutions. When laws are weak or poorly enforced, people find informal ways to survive or get ahead. The line between what is right and wrong blurs. When salaries are low and poverty high, small bribes can feel like necessary steps rather than crimes. Over time, these behaviours spread and become part of the unwritten rules of society.
Another reason is the legacy of decades of poor leadership and lack of accountability. Successive governments have been caught in scandals, yet real change remains elusive. Citizens see powerful people escape punishment, creating a sense of helplessness and resignation. When trust in leaders and systems falls, people stop believing in honesty and fairness.
This culture of corruption also feeds on social pressure. In many communities, it’s expected to help family, friends, or ethnic groups first, even if it means bending rules. Loyalty often trumps merit, and favouritism is seen as a duty rather than a crime. Refusing to join the game can sometimes isolate you, making corruption a survival tactic.
However, framing corruption purely as culture should not excuse it. It must still be called a crime with real consequences. Nigeria’s future depends on shifting this mindset. Change will come through strong laws, transparent governance, fair wages, and most importantly, a renewed sense of shared values.
The battle against corruption will not be won overnight. But if Nigerians start to see corruption not as culture to accept but as crime to fight, there is hope for a fairer, more just society.
