Bridging the Trust Deficit: Strategic Communication as an Imperative for Governance in Nigeria
- Mohammed Baba Yahaya
- DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18287790
- ISA Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences (ISAJAHSS)
This research paper looks at the important role of strategic communication in today’s Nigerian governance. Nigeria deals with ongoing issues like public distrust, failed policy implementation, and social unrest, often worsened by poor communication. Using current analysis and case studies, this paper argues that strategic communication, defined as the intentional and goal-driven management of information and discussion, is essential for ethical leadership, transparency, and good governance. The analysis highlights a common pattern of reactive, one-way communication from the government, which hurts public trust and impairs policy success. On the other hand, the paper shows that proactive, transparent, and participatory communication strategies can close the gap between citizens and the government, improve policy legitimacy, and encourage national development. The findings suggest a complete overhaul of government communication methods, focusing on including stakeholders, using digital innovations, and fostering a culture of accountability and dialogue.
