This paper analyzed corruption in Africa using Nigeria as a case study. It states that corruption is alien to Africa and that a sizable number of African pre-colonial nations – states were founded on strong ethical values ensuring social justice and compliance. The paper therefore argues that colonialism imported corruption to Africa and by extension Nigeria. It explains corruption from different perspectives and concluded that corruption is innate and deep seated in Nigeria particularly in the public sector. The paper then identified non – conformity religious tenets, values, culture, ethnicity, favoritisms, nepotism and weak legal systems among others as the causes of corruption in Nigeria. Thus the paper finds four factors as the costs of corruption in the country – political, economic, social and environmental. Finally, the paper put forward nine points as possible options and frame-work for curbing corruption in Nigeria.