In every nation, the character of its citizens reflects directly on the quality of its leadership. Nigeria, a country brimming with potential, is no exception. For decades, we have clamored for good governance, pointing accusing fingers at our leaders. Yet, the truth remains glaring: real change begins with the citizenry.
In the quest for a better Nigeria, the phrase “bad governance” has become a rallying cry. Citizens chant it at protests, hashtag it on social media, and discuss it fervently in offices, markets, and places of worship. While leadership problems in Nigeria cannot be denied, there is an often-overlooked truth: our nation’s challenges stem not just from its leaders but also from its citizens.
Nigeria, a land of immense potential, is plagued not just by the failings of its leaders but by the actions—and inactions—of its citizens. While it is easy to point fingers at the government, we must ask ourselves: are we truly innocent? If change is the goal, it must start within each one of us.
The average Nigerian is quick to blame those in power for the nation’s woes, yet often fails to take responsibility for their own actions. Lawlessness, dishonesty, and selfishness have become embedded in our daily lives. From jumping red lights to bribing police officers at checkpoints, to bypassing electricity meters, these behaviors are normalized. Despite these actions, we call ourselves religious and pious, attending church services and mosques, while our daily deeds tell a different story.
A Nation at War with Itself
Nigeria is not just battling external challenges; it’s fighting internal battles of trust, loyalty, and empathy. It is a nation where your closest friend or family member may secretly root against your progress. Envy and betrayal seem to have replaced camaraderie, as people prefer backstabbing over honest support. A society where smiles mask hidden animosity is one that has lost its moral compass.
It is a country where your boss might prefer to keep you as a perpetual servant, loyal and subservient, rather than empowering you to grow. Even within religious circles, brethren often tear each other down, speaking ill of one another out of jealousy or fear of another’s success. This culture of sabotage and servitude runs deep, creating an environment where trust and unity are scarce.
The Hypocrisy of the “Religious” Nigerian
A Nigerian may pray five times daily or hold a prominent position in church, yet cheat at work, evade taxes, or falsify receipts for personal gain. This disconnect between religious devotion and moral conduct reflects a deeper societal decay. Religion has become a performance for many, rather than a guide to ethical living.
How can a person who lies, cheats, and evades responsibility protest against bad leadership with a clear conscience? The truth is, our leaders are a reflection of us. A society that normalizes cutting corners, jumping queues, and avoiding accountability cannot produce leaders who behave differently.
Bad Citizenship: The Root of Bad Governance
Good governance begins with good citizenship. Unfortunately, many Nigerians see laws and regulations as obstacles rather than frameworks for order. A citizen who drives against traffic to save a few minutes is undermining the very principles of discipline and accountability they expect from their leaders. Similarly, the employee who shows up late to work but demands a full salary contributes to the inefficiency they criticize in government institutions.
These everyday acts of indiscipline and dishonesty may seem minor, but collectively, they form the foundation of the corruption and lawlessness we claim to despise.
Complacency Amidst Comfort
Many Nigerians are content with the status quo as long as their immediate needs are met. If their family is fed, their table is full, and their comforts are secured, they see no need to advocate for others. The idea of collective progress is overshadowed by selfish interests, leaving those in less fortunate circumstances to fend for themselves.
This lack of empathy has eroded the sense of community that once defined us as a people. Nigeria has become a nation where human feeling and compassion take a backseat to personal ambition.
A Culture of Complaints Without Action
We are quick to complain about bad governance, yet within our own spheres of influence, we replicate the same oppressive behaviors we criticize. Leaders, whether in homes, workplaces, or communities, intimidate those under their care. People demand accountability from the government but fail to hold themselves to the same standards.
Rather than seeking solutions, we have become a nation of complainers. Action is scarce, and blame is abundant. We lament the state of our roads, schools, and hospitals, but few of us are willing to contribute to the solutions.
The Bigger Picture: Servitude and Stagnation
We are a nation trapped in a culture of servitude. From the workplace to religious organizations, from the political arena to personal relationships, many Nigerians are comfortable in systems that exploit them because they see no viable alternative. This servitude breeds stagnation, keeping us locked in cycles of underdevelopment.
The Way Forward: Change Begins with Us
If we are to fix Nigeria, we must first fix ourselves. Change begins with self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth. Imagine a Nigeria where:
Friends celebrate each other’s successes without jealousy.
Leaders empower those under them instead of exploiting them.
Citizens take responsibility for their actions and contribute to the greater good.
Empathy and compassion guide our interactions.
This vision can become reality if we shed our culture of betrayal, complacency, and complaints. The blame game must stop. We must start looking inward, holding ourselves accountable, and committing to being better citizens.
A Call to Action: #EndBadCitizenship
If we truly want to change Nigeria, the change must start with us. It is time to launch a national movement for good citizenship. Let us stop glorifying shortcuts and embrace accountability in our daily lives. Let us teach our children the value of integrity and demonstrate it in our actions.
Stand in line at the bank, even when no one is watching. Refuse to bribe a police officer, even when it seems like the easiest option. Report cases of malpractice in your workplace, even when it is inconvenient. These small acts of personal responsibility can create ripples of change that transform our society.
Conclusion: A Nation of Doers, Not Complainers
Nigeria is what we make of it. While we cry for good governance, we must embody the values we expect from our leaders. If we cannot be honest, empathetic, and hardworking, how can we expect our leaders to be any different?
The journey to a better Nigeria starts with each one of us. Let’s not wait for the government to change; let’s change ourselves. A united, compassionate, and proactive citizenry can transform Nigeria into the nation we all dream of. Let change begin with you. Let change begin with me. Together, we can rebuild our nation.
By Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi
