Anti-Corruption Framework for Sub-National Governance: A Public Sector Reform Model for Akwa Ibom State Civil Service

Abstract

Corruption remains a persistent barrier to effective governance in Nigeria’s sub-national administrations, undermining service delivery and citizen trust. This study examined anti-corruption practices in the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service with the aim of developing a reform model to strengthen transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. Anchored on Social Exchange Theory, an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, beginning with a quantitative survey of 407 respondents across ministries and agencies, complemented by key informant interviews and documentary analysis. Findings reveal that while 72% of respondents are aware of existing anti-corruption mechanisms, only 38% rated them as effective. Major systemic drivers included nepotism in recruitment (56%), procurement manipulation (40%), and payroll fraud (36%). Regression results show that weak internal controls (β = 0.42, p < 0.01) and low adoption of digital governance tools (β = 0.36, p < 0.05) are the strongest predictors of perceived corruption. The study proposes the Transparent, Accountable, and Participatory Administration (TAPA) Model, integrating e-procurement, payroll integrity, whistleblower protection, and participatory budgeting. It concludes that reducing corruption requires altering incentive structures through strong enforcement, digital reforms, and citizen empowerment. The study recommends a sequenced reform roadmap, offering a replicable framework for sub-national governance reform in Nigeria.