CORRUPTION IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP: A FOCUS ON UNIVERSITY EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Corruption in university leadership in Nigeria is a persistent issue that undermines the integrity and quality of higher education. This paper examines the various forms of corruption in Nigerian universities, including financial mismanagement, academic fraud, and nepotism, and analyzes their causes such as weak governance, political interference, and inadequate oversight. The consequences 
of corruption are profound, leading to the erosion of academic standards, financial instability, loss of public trust, and brain drain. To address these challenges, the paper proposes strategies for combating corruption, including strengthening accountability mechanisms, promoting meritocracy, ensuring transparency in financial management, and fostering ethical leadership. Implementing these strategies is essential to restoring the credibility of Nigerian universities and enhancing their role in national development.