*6.3.1 Functions of the Bureau*


#### *6.3.2 Advantage of corruption*

Corruption is believed to be destructive by nature [3]. It affects the growth of every nation negatively [1]. As bad as corruption may be, studies have proven that it also has its advantages [1, 4, 11]. Their argument is situated within the context of "*grease-the-wheel"* theory. According to these studies, corruption especially in the area of bribery could enhance the performance of an economy based on the theory. Buttressing this argument, [3], using panel data of 54 developing nations examined the impact of corruption on the growth of these nations. The study revealed that, in countries with weak institutions, corruption plays a vital role in the growth of such nations. As such, corruption can be seen to be advantageous to such nations. Given a nation that is faced with political instability, inefficient government, and weak institutions that hinder growth, corruption especially bribery greases the wheels of growth through the creation of funds, which is termed as "speed money." This "speed money" lubricates the economy and enhances growth.

In another view, giving a religious coloration, the holy book states in the book of Proverbs 18:16 that, "*our gift will make room for us,"* and in another version*, "your gift will make room for you, to be happy, healthy and prosperous."* In this context, gift offers at any level could be positively infectious. This buttresses the grease-the-wheel theory or rubs the palm hypothesis that corruption helps things to go smoothly.

Nonetheless, the positive possible influence that corruption may have on other economies, it could be safe to conclude that corruption has affected the growth of the Nigerian economy overtime. Since Nigeria is a developing nation with weak institutions, and high rate of bribery, it therefore means that the existence of speed money has contributed to the growth that Nigeria has experienced over the years. Nonetheless, there could be to examine the economic gains and pains of corruption.
