Nigeria has experienced a setback in its fight against corruption, according to the 2025 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) released by Transparency International (TI). The nation now ranks 142nd globally, indicating a slight deterioration in its efforts to curb public sector corruption.

The latest figures, published on Tuesday, reveal that Nigeria maintained a CPI score of 26 out of 100, the same as in 2024. This score underscores the ongoing difficulties in achieving significant improvements in governance and anti-corruption measures. The CPI assesses 182 countries worldwide, using a scale of 0 to 100, where 0 signifies high corruption levels and 100 represents a corruption-free environment. While the 2025 ranking is a drop from 140th in 2024, it is still an improvement compared to the 145th position held in 2023.

A historical perspective shows that Nigeria's CPI performance has been largely stagnant. Since 1996, the country's average score has been 21.48 points. The highest score recorded was 28 in 2016, while the lowest was 6.9 in 1996.

Across Africa, Seychelles continues to lead as the least corrupt nation, securing the 24th position globally, a significant rise from 72nd in 2024. Other African countries demonstrating progress include Cabo Verde, which climbed to 35th place, and Botswana and Rwanda, both at 41st. Namibia and Senegal share the 65th spot, followed by the Republic of Benin at 70th, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana at 76th, and South Africa at 81st.

The data suggests that Nigeria's persistent challenges in combating corruption require more robust strategies to enhance transparency, accountability, and institutional governance. Despite the establishment of anti-corruption agencies and various reforms by successive administrations, progress has been inconsistent.

The government has reiterated its commitment to improving governance and public sector efficiency through various policies. However, sustained political will, consistent policy implementation, and active citizen participation are essential for achieving notable improvements in future CPI rankings. Institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) continue to drive anti-corruption initiatives, including investigations into high-profile cases, public sector audits, and policy reforms.

Nigeria's 2025 CPI result highlights the complexities of tackling corruption within a challenging political and economic landscape. While the country has managed to maintain its score, the report underscores that substantial progress hinges on stronger enforcement mechanisms and systemic reforms to bolster public confidence in governance.