CISLAC raises concern over Nigeria’s decline in global corruption ranking
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised concerns over Nigeria’s worsening position in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), warning that the country’s anti-corruption drive has recorded little progress.
SolaceBase had reported that Nigeria scored 26 out of 100 in the latest global ranking released on Tuesday in Abuja, maintaining its previous score but dropping from 140th position in 2024 to 142nd in 2025, according to Transparency International through its Nigerian chapter, CISLAC.
Speaking during the release of the report, CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), said the result reflects persistent governance challenges and highlights the urgent need for stronger institutional reforms to address corruption across key sectors of the economy.
He noted that while the index does not assess specific corruption cases or directly evaluate anti-graft agencies, it remains a globally recognised benchmark used by policymakers, investors, and development partners to measure transparency and accountability in governance.
Despite the decline in ranking, CISLAC acknowledged improvements in Nigeria’s asset recovery efforts. The organisation disclosed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recovered over ₦566 billion, $411 million and 1,502 properties between October 2023 and September 2025. Similarly, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) recovered ₦37.44 billion and $2.35 million in 2025.
The organisation also welcomed Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 following the implementation of key reforms aimed at strengthening anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks.
However, CISLAC identified several institutional weaknesses undermining the fight against corruption. The organisation expressed concern over allegations of corruption and nepotism in the judiciary, warning that such practices erode public trust in the justice system.
It also cited reports of bribery and extortion involving members of the National Assembly, including allegations that lawmakers demanded payments from tertiary institutions to facilitate budget approvals and legislative processes. CISLAC described the allegations as damaging to Nigeria’s democratic integrity and international reputation.
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The report further highlighted oil theft, subsidy fraud, and financial mismanagement in the power sector as major drivers of corruption. It referenced audit findings indicating that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) failed to account for billions of naira and foreign currencies linked to oil-related funds.
CISLAC also warned of growing threats to press freedom and civic engagement, citing documented attacks on journalists, activists, and whistleblowers exposing corruption. The organisation said such developments weaken democratic accountability and create an enabling environment for corrupt practices.
The organisation called for urgent reforms, including strengthening the independence and funding of anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC, ICPC, and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit. It also urged the National Assembly to pass the Whistleblower Protection Bill and implement electoral reforms to enhance transparency in the electoral process.
Rafsanjani reaffirmed CISLAC’s commitment to working with government institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote accountability and strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria.
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