“Shared Responsibility: Citizens, Residents, and Government should Unite for a Better Society.”

~ Comrade Victor Ojei popularly called Wong Box (Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Delta State on Civil Societies and NGO’s). Feel free to contact us via WhatsApp 08038785262

In the intricate tapestry of a nation’s progress, the threads of responsibility are woven together, binding citizens, residents, and government in a common cause. Issues like security, environmental sanitation, and the overall well-being of a society are not the exclusive burden of the government; they are a shared responsibility that demands active participation from every individual. In this article, we delve into the significance of recognizing this shared responsibility, particularly focusing on Nigeria’s context. We will explore the consequences of negligence, how citizens and residents can contribute, and the pivotal role of government institutions in fostering awareness and action.

The Ripple Effect of Negligence:

The repercussions of neglecting one’s responsibilities ripple through society, impacting every facet of life. Consider the alarming scenario of plastic consumption and improper waste disposal. When citizens, residents, or visitors thoughtlessly discard plastic products into gutters or onto roads, these materials find their way into drainages, clogging them. This heedless action can trigger devastating consequences, such as flooding. Such floods disrupt lives, damage infrastructure, and disrupt the economy. The aftermath of these events reminds us that our actions are interconnected, and their consequences reverberate throughout society.

Empowering Citizens and Residents:

Taking ownership of shared responsibilities begins with education and awareness. Citizens, residents, and even visitors must be informed of their vital role in upholding security, environmental cleanliness, and other aspects of societal well-being. It’s not just about avoiding negative actions but also actively contributing to positive change. Individuals can join or support civil societies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations (CBOs) that champion these causes. By doing so, they can channel their concerns and suggestions, holding government bodies accountable while working collaboratively to implement solutions.

Trust, Government, and Citizen Collaboration:

A prevalent sentiment often heard is that “Nigerians don’t trust the police or government.” While skepticism towards governmental institutions exists in many societies, bridging this gap is essential for meaningful progress. The government holds a responsibility to initiate trust-building efforts, fostering open dialogue and transparency. At the same time, citizens play a crucial role in maintaining constructive engagement. By expressing concerns through established channels, like civil societies, NGOs, and CBOs, citizens can hold the government accountable and demand action.

Government’s Role: 

Education and Empowerment:

The government, both at the federal and state levels, has a pivotal role in shaping public awareness and fostering positive change. Entities like the National Orientation Agency and the National Human Rights Commission have the power to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities. Moreover, these agencies can create platforms to promote values such as environmental stewardship and community safety.

Addressing Challenges:

However, challenges hinder the effectiveness of these efforts. Insufficient funding, diversion of funds, and corrupt practices can undermine the potential impact of organizations like the National Orientation Agency and the legal aid system. Addressing these issues requires collective determination to root out corruption, ensure proper allocation of resources, and enhance accountability mechanisms.

Conclusion:

The journey toward a better society is not one that can be undertaken by a single entity; it requires the collective efforts of citizens, residents, and government. Recognizing shared responsibilities is not a mere acknowledgment of duties but a commitment to actively participate in safeguarding security, preserving the environment, and upholding societal values. Through education, collaboration, and open dialogue, Nigeria can foster an environment where trust and collective action thrive. As citizens and government join hands, the path towards a better Nigeria becomes clearer and more attainable than ever before.