Effect of Implementation Of E-Procurement on Corrupt Practices in Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

In Nigeria, significant efforts have been made to implement public procurement Act that will enhance probity and transparency in the process, regrettably, corrupt practices in the Nigerian construction industry are procurement based. Electronic procurement (e-procurement) has been widely adopted by both private and public sectors in the developed countries using information technology to drive accountability and promote transparency in the procurement process. However, the implementation of e-procurement as an instrument of reform in the process to reduce corrupt practice has not been well researched in Nigeria. This study examines the potential of e-procurement in reducing corrupt practices in public procurement using quantitative research approach. Questionnaires were self-administered to government officers in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) where construction works are mostly being procured. Fifty-six (56) valid questionnaires were returned which was analysed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. The findings revealed that unjustified use of exceptions and illicit fragmentation of the procurement practice are major causes of corruption, while the best anti-corruption strategy is to reduce lithographic works and physical contacts. The study concludes that effective implementation of e -procurement will assist in reducing unethical practices in the procurement process.