CORRUPTION, GOVERNANCE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN NIGERIA

Abstract

It is the fundamental right of every citizen to have a job or be employed by government or be provided job opportunities. In the early ‘70s in Nigeria, it was white-collar job waiting for graduates to choose among many. Alas! Reverse is the case in the contemporary era. Securing such job nowadays has become competitive, political (slot) and “man knows man” issue. It is in our country that one sees graduates with good grade or class still looking for job, while some without result or good grade have secured job in public service, what should we call this? It is expected of the executives, legislature and Judiciary to lead with the fear of God, promulgate laws in favour of the masses and adjudicate cases in a godly and faithful manner. But, corruptions have blindfolded people at all hems of governance. Economically and employment wise, many people are disappointed in government. As a result of this, citizens have embarked on entrepreneurship as an alternative to their livelihood. So, entrepreneurship has been proven to have a massive impact on Nigeria’s economy. It can promote new industries, improve productivity and lead to large –scale job creation. It ought to aid governance in the creation of jobs for the masses. Unfortunately, corruption has wrecked both governance and entrepreneurship. It has become a means for Government officials to impose costs for private benefit. For entrepreneurs, this can result in paying exorbitant bribes or having their activity blocked by officials who have been paid off by competitors. Corruption is a deterrent for both governance and entrepreneurial spirit and activities. Entrepreneurship which ought to alleviate poverty has become a programme for the aristocratic people. Corruption is a cankerworm that devours the effort of Government officials and entrepreneurs. This paper examines the meaning of the key words, the effects of corruption on governance and entrepreneurship, strategic wars against corruption in governance and entrepreneurship and recommends entrepreneurship as a lasting solution to the problem of unemployment or underemployment in our country, Nigeria if well managed.