Anti-Corruption Campaigns and Nigeria Development: An Appraisal of Media Roles

Abstract

Nigerian development problem is partly linked to corruption which begets malnutrition,
illiteracy, poverty, unemployment, hunger and infrastructure decay. Due to the failures of numerous
development strategies in Nigeria, this paper provides an overview of mass media efforts in fighting
corruption. Similarly, the paper applies social responsibility and development media theory in
campaigning against the said corruption. Using secondary data of Transparency International from
(2000-2018) on the World Corruption Perception Index and Ranking, the study revealed that the media
have been very relevant in curbing corruption and entrenching development through its watchdog role
and mass enlightening in the provision of information that facilitates job creation, economy
improvement, enhanced security and re-orientation of the masses. The study equally revealed that the
level of bribery, looting of treasury, abuse of power and secret dealings are perceived to be rapidly
reducing in Nigeria. Further, the study equally showed that Nigeria moved from 148th to 144th position
out of 180 countries in the 2018 (CPI) report of corrupt countries. Hence, this paper proposes critical
media independence, vibrant and active judicial system coupled with exemplary leadership for a more
feasible development schemes in Nigeria.