End Bad Governance: A Call to Action to Tinubu’s Government for Nigeria's Future

 As of recent, Nigeria has seen invigorated public discussions around the matter of governance and accountability. The buzzword trending on “End Bad Governance” deeply touches the hearts of Nigerians leading to numerous conversations, demonstrations, and various campaigns on social media aimed at building a united front against the systematic inefficiencies that have been in Nigeria over ages. It is not just about online activism; it marks the birth of a strong civic participation seeking openness, responsibility and thus a promising Nigerian tomorrow for everyone.

This is not a call to action that is without basis. A report by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS, 2023) has consistently placed Nigeria near the bottom of the Corruption Perceptions Index and a significant amount of public funds are being misappropriated or poorly managed. This mishandling usually manifests in poor infrastructures, education systems, healthcare delivery, and security issues- all which are prerequisites for national development and citizen welfare. Consequently, “End Bad Governance” slogan springs from the desperate need for overhauling these critical sectors.

The advent of social media has seen an upsurge in citizens’ mobilization and amplification of their voices. For instance, campaigns on Twitter and Instagram have moved beyond mere hashtags to become solidarity movements including peace rallies in several states. Influencers as well as concerned citizens have been using their platforms to inform others about what can result from bad governance like alternatives proposals. One memorable campaign dubbed #ReformNigeria, calls upon policy makers to make legislative changes which will promote accountability and good governance (Ojo, 2023). Besides the internet, there have been other demonstrations organized by different civil society organizations.

The demonstrations act as a powerful change agent and as a representation of the voice of the unheard. In Nigeria these movements have been particularly active with a significant youth population. They’ve had deep resonance with their demands for transparency, better job opportunities and quality education which implicitly speaks to them that their future is at stake (Adesanya, 2023).

Resolving this issue requires not just politicians’ acknowledgement of this surge in activism but also hopefulness. It is essential that public institutions regain trust through addressing the concerns of these citizens. Good governance calls for an all-inclusive dialogue involving different stakeholders including marginalized communities whose voices are often ignored. By connecting government, civil society and private sector partnerships can be developed to address underlying causes of poor governance.

This movement "End Bad Governance “in Nigeria also reminds us that revolution is not only needed but achievable after all. Countries globally have demonstrated that transformation of governance structures is possible through sustained citizen participation that leads to legislative change. As Nigeria finds herself at this moment in history, it is imperative that all stakeholders come together in their shared aim to create systems that serve the interests of their citizens, so future generations can inherit a more just and equitable society.

The refrains of the Nigerian governance campaign reinforce our time being a historic moment for the nation to take responsibility. As citizens protest against corruption and inefficiency, the collective effect of their action can lead to substantive change. With continued advocacy, awareness, and participation, Nigeria's future has the potential to transform into a more resilient Nigeria that offers dignity, justice, and prosperity for all of its population.

 

References:

Adesanya, T. (2023). Youth Activism and the Call for Governance Reform in Nigeria. Journal of Nigerian Studies.

National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) (2023). Corruption Perceptions and Governance Quality in Nigeria. NBS Report.

Ojo, M. (2023). The Role of Social Media in Nigeria's Governance Discourse. Media and Communication Journal.