Efforts to tackle corruption in the health sector often fail not because social accountability is ineffective, but because it is applied too narrowly.
In our recent blog, authored by Aloysius Odii and Nnenna Mba‑Oduwusi, and published by the Global Network for Anti-corruption, transparency and accountability in health (GNACTA), we argue that social accountability should be understood and designed as a multi-component strategy, rather than a single intervention. Using the Nigerian health sector as a case study, the article showcases how power, incentives and systems can help sustain anti-corruption efforts.
Meaningful impact emerges when social accountability mechanisms are intentionally linked to institutional responsiveness, oversight structures, enforcement pathways, and feedback loops. When these components work together, citizen voice is more likely to translate into improved service delivery and better health outcomes.
We are encouraged that this perspective resonated with reviewers and that the blog was recognised by the Accountability & Anticorruption SDG Thematic Working Group, Health Systems Global (TWG-AAA), through a competitive review process for its relevance to advancing the field. More importantly, we hope the ideas contribute to deeper reflection on how social accountability is designed, funded, and implemented in Nigeria and similar contexts.
Read about the blog here
