The development of Nigeria’s democracy becomes repressed as a result of the combination of the general malaise of endemic corruption and systemic failure in all ramifications. Few countries of the world are as much endowed with human and natural resources as Nigeria. Governments are already failing to meet their immediate obligations of payment of salaries and maintaining the structures of governance thus signaling the symptoms of a failed nation. This study is a descriptive analytical survey of the ongoing situation in Nigeria since the Forth Republic. There were also indications that, even though efforts were geared towards the prosecution of corrupt individuals and agencies, enduring policies for the prevention of these negative activities remained at large. The study concluded, among others, that a set of harmonized policies remain critical for a successful battle against corruption in downplaying political acrimony, harnessing all resources, natural, human and materials toward the security, political and economic development and good governance in Nigeria.

Keywords: Corruption, growth, development, governance, human rights and good governance