Whistleblowing Policy and Anti-Corruption Effort in Nigeria's Public Sector, 2015-2024

This study examines the whistleblowing policy and anti-corruption effort in Nigeria’s public sector, 2015 and 2024. It focuses on key objectives: analyzing the implementation and effectiveness of the policy in curbing financial corruption, assessing the challenges hindering its success, and evaluating the level of public awareness and institutional responsiveness to disclosures. Guided by Deterrence Theory which posits that individuals are less likely to engage in misconduct if the risks and consequences are substantial the study explores the extent to which the policy has functioned as a deterrent against public sector corruption. Adopting a qualitative and analytical research design, the study relies exclusively on secondary data sources, including official reports from the Federal Ministry of Finance, EFCC, ICPC, civil society organizations (e.g., BudgIT, SERAP, Transparency International), investigative journalism, and peer-reviewed literature. Data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and challenges associated with whistleblowing disclosures. Findings reveal that while the whistleblowing policy has contributed to the recovery of significant public funds, it is hampered by weak legislative backing, inadequate protection for Whistleblowing, limited public awareness, and poor institutional coordination. Many disclosures are met with delays or are unaddressed, and whistleblowers often face retaliation, discouraging further participation. The study concludes that without legal reforms, robust protection mechanisms, and increased civic education, the policy's potential will remain underutilized. It recommends enacting whistleblowing protection legislation, enhancing inter-agency case management systems, and implementing targeted public awareness campaigns to strengthen the framework’s credibility and long-term effectiveness.