DELSU JOURNAL OF NATURE, SOCIO-HUMANISTIC AND SCIENTIFIC VALUES

Corruption in drug procurement and distribution within Nigeria's public health sector significantly undermines the delivery of essential healthcare services. This study investigates the common forms and drivers of corruption in pharmaceutical supply chains and analyzes their impact on public health outcomes such as access to quality medication, disease burden, and patient trust. Using a combination of literature review, empirical data analysis, and hypothesis testing, the research reveals pervasive practices including procurement fraud, drug diversion, and informal payments, driven by weak oversight, political interference, and inadequate remuneration. The findings demonstrate a strong negative relationship between corruption and health system performance, evidenced by increased drug stock-outs, proliferation of counterfeit drugs, higher treatment failures, and reduced patient confidence. The study underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms encompassing digital procurement, strengthened regulatory frameworks, improved workforce conditions, and enhanced community monitoring to mitigate corruption and improve public health outcomes in Nigeria.

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