Nigeria maintained its low score of 26 out of 100 on the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) while slipping in the global ranking, dropping from 140th position in 2024 to 142nd out of 180 countries assessed, according to Transparency International (TI) and its Nigerian chapter, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC).
The CPI measures perceived levels of public sector corruption using data from independent and reputable institutions and does not assess individual corruption cases. Transparency International describes the index as the most widely recognised global benchmark for measuring corruption across countries.
In a statement accompanying the release and signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation noted that while Nigeria’s score indicates stagnation in the fight against corruption, it does not amount to an evaluation of the performance of anti-corruption agencies, many of which continue to demonstrate commitment despite systemic challenges.
Positive developments noted
CISLAC identified several positive trends that contributed to Nigeria’s relative stability on the index, including progress in asset recovery efforts. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly recovered over ₦566 billion, $411 million and 1,502 properties between October 2023 and September 2025, while the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) recovered ₦37.44 billion and $2.353 million in 2025.
International cooperation on asset recovery was also highlighted, including the agreement by the UK Crown Dependency of Jersey in January 2026 to repatriate over $9.5 million in assets linked to corruption for use in critical infrastructure projects in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 was cited as another milestone. The delisting followed implementation of a 19-point action plan aimed at strengthening anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks.
CISLAC further acknowledged the role of civil society organisations and the media in exposing corruption and promoting accountability, describing them as essential pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.
Persistent structural weaknesses
Despite these gains, the organisation raised concerns over deep-rooted challenges undermining anti-corruption efforts. Judicial corruption, allegations of bias, nepotism in appointments, and declining public confidence in the justice system were identified as major weaknesses.
The report also pointed to continued oil theft and subsidy fraud, referencing the 2022 Auditor-General’s report published in September 2025, which alleged that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) failed to account for billions of naira and millions of dollars in oil-related revenues.
Other concerns include weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election, corruption in the power sector, shrinking civic space, persistent insecurity linked to corruption in the security sector, and limited transparency across public institutions, many of which have yet to fully comply with the Freedom of Information Act.
CISLAC cited reports of attacks on journalists and activists, noting that at least 86 incidents targeting media practitioners and citizens were recorded in 2025, further undermining democratic accountability.
Calls for reform
The organisation called for stronger institutional independence for anti-corruption agencies, greater transparency in judicial appointments, reforms in the security sector, full digitisation of procurement processes, and public disclosure of recovered assets.
CISLAC also urged the National Assembly to pass the Whistleblower Protection Bill, amend the Electoral Act to mandate electronic transmission of election results, and ensure full compliance with constitutional provisions on budgetary appropriations.
Reaffirming its commitment to national development, CISLAC stated that it remains open to working with government institutions and stakeholders to strengthen transparency, accountability, and democratic governance in Nigeria.
