DIALECTICAL REVIEW OF NIGERIAN PUBLIC SECTOR ETHICS AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

The public's perception of public officials' behavior and their conduct itself determines the reputation and effectiveness of government. Therefore, it is crucial that public servants treat everyone with justice and fairness, not simply by talking the talk but also by making sure that moral behavior is clearly and unquestionably demonstrated. The difficulties in fostering moral conduct in Nigeria are covered in this essay. The government's institutional measures to control unethical behavior in the public sector were outlined together with the identification of the key causes of such behavior. The government's institutional measures to control unethical behavior in the public sector were outlined together with the identification of the key causes of such behavior. It contends that because of intentional dissatisfaction on the part of government and civil officials, these efforts have not succeeded in giving the service the ethical atmosphere it needs in the post-independence age, leading to unethical behavior and unchecked corruption in the public sector.  Therefore, the paper recommends, among other things, a comprehensive agenda for mass education campaigns about the scope and cost of corruption and unethical behavior as well as the enactment, improvement, and effective enforcement of laws, codes of conduct, and regulations promoting ethics. The public sector's ability to uphold ethical values would be dependent upon the prevalence of transparent, accountable leadership, and good governance.