By Ezenwa Opara
In Nigeria’s journey towards effective governance, recent policy shifts under the Bola Tinubu administration have ignited fervent discussions nationwide. From the suspension of the controversial Cybersecurity Levy to the abrupt removal of petroleum subsidies and the startling hike in electricity tariffs, Nigerians are left grappling with the implications of these decisions. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, one critical element stands out starkly absent: meaningful consultation with the very citizens these policies impact.
The importance of citizen consultation and advocacy in governance cannot be overstated. It serves as the linchpin that bridges the gap between the government and the governed, fostering trust, understanding, and accountability. In a diverse nation like Nigeria, where myriad challenges abound, tapping into the collective wisdom of its people is not just advisable but imperative.
First and foremost, citizen consultation is essential for building trust. Trust is the currency of effective governance, and when decisions are made behind closed doors without citizen input, trust erodes, and skepticism flourishes. Meaningful consultation demonstrates a genuine commitment by the government to value and respect the voices of its people, thereby laying a foundation of trust upon which effective governance can thrive.
Moreover, citizen consultation provides invaluable insights into the real needs, concerns, and priorities of different segments of society. Nigeria’s rich history of cultures, languages, and traditions demands a nuanced approach to policymaking that can only be achieved through active engagement with its diverse citizenry. By listening to the voices of its people, the government can gain a deeper understanding of the complex challenges facing the nation and tailor policies that address them effectively.
Transparency and accountability are also intrinsic to citizen consultation. When policies are developed in isolation, accountability becomes elusive, and the government risks alienating its citizens. In contrast, citizen consultation holds policymakers accountable by ensuring that decisions are made in the public interest and that those responsible are held to account for their actions. By involving citizens in the policymaking process, the government not only enhances transparency but also strengthens its legitimacy in the eyes of the people.
Furthermore, citizen consultation fosters unity in a nation as diverse as Nigeria. By providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration, citizen consultation promotes understanding, tolerance, and social cohesion. In a country where ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic divides often threaten to tear the fabric of society asunder, citizen consultation serves as a powerful tool for building bridges and forging common ground.
In light of recent developments, it is evident that the Tinubu administration stands to benefit greatly from embracing citizen consultation and advocacy in governance. Instead of making decisions in isolation, the government should actively engage with citizens, listen to their concerns, and incorporate their feedback into policymaking processes. By doing so, the Tinubu administration can chart a course towards a brighter future for Nigeria—one that is built on trust, transparency, and the collective wisdom of its people.
Opara, Media and Public Relations Executive, writes from Lagos