Effect of fraud on the growth and development of the nigerian banking industry

Thesis Abstract

The research work dwells on the effect of fraud on the growth and development of Bank in Nigeria. Cases of frauds and forgeries in banks have not only become incessant but have also been on the increase in recent years. Although frauds and forgeries in banks are global phenomena, their growth in Nigeria has been astounding. The problem of frauds and forgeries are endemic and unavoidable in the banking industry, due to the very nature of banking business which involves human beings (clients and staff) of diverse backgrounds and interests in a relationship of trust.

The study used primary data collected vide the administration of questionnaire. The data collected were tested using the Chi-square statistical techniques. Specific findings from the study indicate that the relatively inexperienced staffs of a bank branch are more likely to commit fraud and that more experienced bankers are more likely to swindle larger sums of money. Moreover, the causes of Bank Frauds include general lust for affluence, recognition being accorded the wealthy people regardless of the source of their wealth, down turn in the economy, general belief that banks can sustain any amount of loss, failure of bank staff to observe laid down procedures. The study recommend that branch opening a new current account for a customer should make sure that all the bank’s policies in that respect are religiously complied with. Proper references must be obtained before cheque books are issued to customers and all postings to new accounts should be carefully scrutinized while no withdrawal should be allowed without prior verification of the lodgments.