Abstract

The role of information technology in controlling and preventing corruption in Nigeria has been examined.  Functions and types of corruption existing within the different public sectors (the civil service, tertiary institution/examination bodies and research institutes, the police, the power holding company, the executive/legislature and the judiciary) in Nigerian government are found to vary from one sector to another. Existing information technology steps needed to prevent or control such levels of corruptions are summarized to include the designed of a computerized data base, the use of biometric features and a complete switch from manual to electronic method of purchasing forms, bidding of contracts and carrying out transactions corruption in Nigeria is viewed as a serious impediment to the socio-economic growth of a country. The author has recommended information and communication technology (ICTs) education as a major step to foil most of these policies.

Key words: Public sector, fighting corruption, ICTs.