Administrative Ethics and Corruption in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions: Evidence from Nnamdi Azikiwe University

This study examined the relationship between administrative ethics and corruption in Nigerian tertiary institutions, using Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, as a case study. The research adopted a descriptive survey design, drawing data from 340 academic and non-academic staff selected through a stratified random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was administered, and data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS 27.0. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was 0.87, indicating high internal consistency. The findings indicate that while a majority of respondents (77.9%) perceived administrators as acting with integrity (mean = 3.93, SD = 1.04), the survey responses also suggest the presence of specific unethical practices within the institution studied. Reported concerns included perceived nepotism in recruitment processes (mean = 3.93, SD = 1.09), embezzlement (mean = 3.99, SD = 1.06), and bribery (mean = 3.94, SD = 1.00). The regression analysis (R² = 0.520, p < 0.0001) demonstrates that the variables examined jointly explain a substantial proportion of the variation in reported unethical behaviour within the university. Among these, institutional factors (β = 0.482, p < 0.001) showed the strongest statistical association, followed by cultural factors (β = 0.326, p < 0.001) and environmental factors (β = 0.218, p < 0.001). Within the scope of this single-institution study, the results suggest that perceived weaknesses in internal control mechanisms, tolerance for preferential treatment, and unfavourable working conditions are significant predictors of unethical conduct. Although formal ethical guidelines appear to be in place, the findings imply limitations in their implementation and enforcement within the university context. It recommends strengthening ethical enforcement mechanisms, enhancing transparency through e-governance, improving staff welfare, and promoting ethical leadership to restore accountability and integrity in Nigerian tertiary institutions.