The Whistleblowing Policy’s Measures to Combat Corruption in Nigeria (2016 To 2026)

Abstract

This review examines Nigeria's 2016 Whistleblowing Policy as both an accountability tool and a contested practice within the country's anti-corruption framework from 2016 to 2026. It analyses the policy's design, implementation, and outcomes through three lenses: reward system, confidentiality and anonymity, and fair hearing, referencing notable cases such as Osborne Towers, OPL 245, Diezani Alison-Madueke, CBN fraud, NDDC, pension fund, and Kano drug procurement. The methodology involved a contextual review, integrating academic literature, government documents, reports from the EFCC and ICPC, civil society evaluations, and credible media coverage, with data sourced from databases and official Nigerian portals. The research included only English-language materials relevant to Nigerian practices published between 2016 and 2026, excluding opinion pieces lacking empirical support. Findings reveal that although the policy generated early recoveries, its executive nature, discretionary reward payment, lack of statutory confidentiality protections, and reliance on ex parte forfeiture have undermined credibility and due process. The absence of legal safeguards deters insiders and shifts disclosures to external actors. The review concludes that codification into a Whistleblower Protection Act, establishment of an independent adjudication body, integration of procedural safeguards for accused persons, enforceable anti-retaliation provisions, and transparent reporting are essential for legitimacy and effectiveness.