Nigeria operates under a written constitution, which provides a stable framework for laws. However, when it comes to policies, the story is different. Policies, unlike laws, are meant to be more adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances. But in Nigeria, this flexibility often feels like a double-edged sword. On one hand, policies are meant to be dynamic and evolving; on the other, frequent changes reflect a reactive governance style that undermines the seriousness with which policies should be formulated.
The Downside: A Lack of Stability
Policies should be crafted carefully, with long-term planning in mind. In Nigeria, we see a trend where policies are introduced and rescinded with little warning. This instability can create confusion and lead to a lack of trust in the government’s ability to manage the nation’s affairs effectively. This flexibility can be seen as a flaw, reflecting a lack of the seriousness and thoroughness that should go into the policy-making process.
Take, for example, the recent rescinding of the age criterion for admission into Tertiary Schools. The Minister of Education had initially set a policy requiring students to be at least 18 years old to be admitted in 2024. This policy was swiftly retracted and moved to 2025 after public outcry, leading many to question how much thought and consultation went into the decision in the first place. If policies can be so easily overturned, it undermines their authority and the trust that citizens place in the legislative system.
Similarly, the frequent adjustments in policies, such as the attempted increase in data tariffs by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), show a pattern of reactive governance. Decisions are made and then quickly reversed, giving the impression that the policy is more of a suggestion than a binding regulation. This kind of flexibility, while sometimes necessary, can weaken the stability that a written constitution is meant to provide.
The Upside: The Power of Public Opinion
On the positive side, Nigeria’s flexibility in policy-making highlights the power of public opinion. Policies in democratic societies should reflect the will of the people, and in Nigeria, we see numerous instances where public opinion has swayed the direction of policy-making. This level of responsiveness is crucial for maintaining public trust in governance.
The disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in 2020 is a prime example. The #EndSARS movement, fueled by widespread protests and public outrage over police brutality, forced the government to take action. Despite initial resistance, the government eventually accepted the demands of the people, leading to the disbandment of the controversial police unit. This demonstrates a positive aspect of flexibility in policies—when the government listens and adapts to the will of its citizens, it strengthens the democratic process.
A Balanced Perspective
The flexibility of policies is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it exposes the weaknesses in our policy-making process, suggesting that more time and care needs to be invested in policy making. On the other hand, this flexibility also ensures that the government remains responsive to the needs and demands of its people.
Nigeria’s challenge lies in striking a balance between creating thoughtful, stable policies that stand the test of time and remaining flexible enough to adjust when necessary. This balance will ensure that policies not only reflect the will of the people but are also reliable enough to foster trust and stability in governance.
