ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the dynamics of corruption, unethical behavior and mismanagement in the public sector in Nigeria. It argues that state control of the economy and the excessive regulation of economic activities create opportunistic behavior that include ethics conflicts due to lack of accountability, inexperience, ignorance of specific ethical principles by government and business officials in Nigeria. The chapter also argues that any attempt at eradicating corruption in Nigeria must rest on comprehensive and sustained system of public accountability that takes into account of interactive nature of social institutions, political, economic, legal, family, religious, educational and cultural values and norms. It addresses the question: What can Nigeria do in the twenty-first century to root out corruption, carry out sustainable development and promote entrepreneurship and innovation? The chapter sketches a framework for thinking about the ethical responsibilities of professional managers in Nigeria in the twenty-first century. Morality refers to good character and right actions that build and support character.
