Project Abstract

Abstract
Corruption in Nigeria poses a significant threat to sustainable economic development, with detrimental effects on various sectors, including the Ministry of Agriculture. This research project focuses on investigating the extent of corruption within the Ministry of Agriculture in Nigeria and its impact on the country's overall economic development. The study employs a case study approach to delve deep into the specific dynamics of corruption within the ministry and its implications. Through a combination of qualitative research methods such as interviews, document analysis, and observation, this research aims to uncover the root causes of corruption within the Ministry of Agriculture. By examining the behavior of key stakeholders, including government officials, employees, and external parties involved in the ministry's activities, the study seeks to understand the motivations behind corrupt practices. Furthermore, the research explores the consequences of corruption on the ministry's operations and effectiveness in achieving its goals. By analyzing the financial losses, mismanagement of resources, and distortion of policies resulting from corrupt activities, the study provides insights into the direct impact of corruption on the agricultural sector and the broader economy. Moreover, the project evaluates the existing anti-corruption measures and their effectiveness in combating corrupt practices within the Ministry of Agriculture. By assessing the legal framework, institutional mechanisms, and enforcement strategies in place, the research identifies gaps and challenges that hinder the successful prevention and prosecution of corruption. The findings of this research contribute to the existing literature on corruption in Nigeria and offer practical recommendations for policymakers, government officials, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. By highlighting the specific vulnerabilities within the Ministry of Agriculture and proposing targeted solutions, the study aims to support efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in the sector. Ultimately, this research underscores the critical importance of addressing corruption in Nigeria, particularly within key government institutions like the Ministry of Agriculture, to foster sustainable economic development and ensure the efficient utilization of resources for agricultural growth. By shedding light on the intricate relationship between corruption and economic development, the study advocates for holistic approaches to combat corruption and promote a culture of integrity and ethical behavior in the Nigerian context.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION
1.0 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Amuwo (2005) and Obayelu (2007) consider corruption as the exploitation of public position, resources and power for private gain. Fieldstad&Isaksen (2008, p. 3) and Ogundiya (2009, p. 5) define corruption as “the betrayal of public trust for individual or sectional gain.” Obayelu went further to identify corruption as “efforts to secure wealth or power through illegal means for private gain at public expense; or a misuse of power for private benefit.” Corruption covers a broad spectrum of activities ranging from fraud (the through misrepresentation), embezzlement (misappropriation of corporate or public funds) to bribery (payments made in order to gain an advantage or to avoid a disadvantage). From a political point of view, Aiyede (2006, p. 5) views corruption as “the abuse or misuse of public or governmental power for illegitimate private advantages.” His view corroborates the position of Lipset and Lenz (2000) that corruption is an effort to secure wealth or power through illegal means for private benefit at public expense. Tanzi(1998) adds that such abuse of public power may not necessarily be for one’s private benefit but for the benefit of one’s party, class, tribe, or family. Although corruption is global in scope, it is more pronounced in developing societies because of their weak institutions. It is minimal in developed nations because of existing institutional control mechanisms which are more developed and effective.
The effects of corruption on a nation’s economy are damaging. A nation inundated with corruption cannot be viable economically; neither can the system generate enough support/ affection required for the survival of democratic system. This is a situation inNigeria where corruption has become part and parcel of the political culture. Corruption has indeed robbed Nigerians the benefit of economic development because scarce available resources that should have been deployed to execute development project have gone into private foreign accounts. Corruption is widespread in Nigeria, not because the people are different from other parts of the world, but because the conditions are ripe for it. There are many reasons why this is so. The motivation to earn income from among the populace is relatively stronger; exacerbated by poverty, unemployment and low
wages. In many developing countries Nigeria inclusive, accountability is generally weak. Political competition and civil liberties are restricted. Laws and principles of ethics in governance are poorly developed and the legal institutions charged with enforcing them are ill-prepared. The research seeks to investigate corruption in Nigeria as a threat to sustainable Economic development using Ministry of Agriculture as a case study