Nigeria Climbs Five Spots in Global Corruption Index

Nigeria has recorded a slight improvement in the latest global Corruption Perception Index released by Trading Economics, moving from 145th to 140th place out of 180 countries.

While this five-place jump reflects a marginal shift in ranking, analysts caution that it may be more due to worsening situations in other countries than a significant anti-corruption breakthrough at home.

In Africa, performance was mixed. Ivory Coast rose sharply from 87th to 69th, and Rwanda advanced from 49th to 43rd. Ghana slipped to 80th but still ranked far better than Nigeria.

Globally, Denmark retained its position as the least corrupt country, followed by Finland and Singapore. Somalia, South Sudan, and Venezuela remained entrenched at the bottom of the table.

Experts in Nigeria say the country’s poor score stems from entrenched weaknesses such as selective enforcement of anti-graft laws, political interference in investigations, and opaque procurement processes.

President Bola Tinubu has promised stronger anti-corruption agencies and reduced government waste. However, critics say prosecutions often target political opponents while allies are spared.

Economists warn that without comprehensive reforms, Nigeria risks discouraging investors and undermining its economic diversification efforts. Civil society groups are urging for stronger whistleblower protections, independent courts, and digitalised public services to reduce bribery opportunities.

Although the new ranking may boost Nigeria’s image slightly, observers stress that genuine progress will only come through reforms that Nigerians can see and feel in daily governance.