By Springnewsng

Nigeria has been ranked 140th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released by Transparency International on Tuesday. The country scored 26 points, placing it alongside Uganda, Mexico, Madagascar, Iraq, and Cameroon.

The CPI measures perceived levels of public sector corruption worldwide, scoring nations from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). Denmark ranked as the least corrupt country with 90 points, followed by Finland (88) and Singapore (84). However, no African country made it into the top 10. Cape Verde ranked highest in Africa with 62 points, placing 35th overall.

At the bottom of the list, South Sudan, Somalia, and Venezuela were named the most corrupt countries.

Transparency International Chair Francois Valeria stated, “The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index shows that corruption is a dangerous problem in every part of the world, but change for the better is happening in many countries.”

Valeria also warned that corruption is hindering global climate action, making it harder for countries to combat climate change.

The report noted that while 32 countries have improved their corruption rankings since 2012, 148 have either stagnated or worsened.

“Over two-thirds of countries score below 50, meaning billions of people live in nations where corruption destroys lives and undermines human rights,” Valeria added.

Nigeria’s ranking reflects its continued struggles with corruption, which has been a major challenge for governance and economic development. Despite slight progress in 2024, the country lags behind several African nations in anti-corruption efforts.

Seychelles remains the highest-ranked African country, scoring 72, followed by Cape Verde (62), Namibia (59), Rwanda (57), Botswana (57), and Mauritius (56). These nations have implemented stronger anti-corruption frameworks and governance reforms, contributing to their higher rankings.

The CPI ranking serves as a reminder of Nigeria’s urgent need for improved transparency, accountability, and governance reforms to tackle corruption effectively.