How taking responsibility for the issues around us in small ways can lead to transformative change.

Have you ever engaged in a lively conversation with Nigerians, only to notice that the discussion swiftly shifts towards problems? It seems that whenever two or more Nigerians gather, the discourse inevitably centers around the challenges faced by Nigeria.

Whether it’s personal predicaments or the ever-present issues attributed to the government, we Nigerians have a tendency to delve into our problems. This inclination is not unique to us, and there’s nothing inherently wrong with it. However, what sets us apart is the belief that merely talking about these problems will solve or eliminate them.

We often quote the saying, “A problem shared is half-solved,” which holds some truth. Nonetheless, problems don’t resolve themselves, and the real question is how we can transition from a mindset of comparing the severity of our individual issues to a state where we actively work towards solving these problems.

Talk without action holds little value. If you’ve ever wondered about the proposed solutions to our national problems when they are being discussed, you’re likely to encounter responses like “I’ve left it to God” or “It’s the government’s responsibility.”

This learned helplessness stems from the belief that we are incapable of solving these problems ourselves. In case you are wondering, learned helplessness is a concept that refers to resignation and reduced motivation to take action, developed after repeatedly experiencing situations where they don’t have the ability to influence outcomes. It leads to a sense of helplessness, a lack of motivation to solve problems, and reliance on authorities or others to address challenges.

However, history has repeatedly demonstrated that the most effective approach to addressing problems begins with accurately defining the issue and then devising a step-by-step plan for its resolution. Patience is crucial in finding solutions, as long-term challenges require time to be adequately tackled. Unfortunately, collaboration is an area where we often fall short as Nigerians.

To address these systemic problems, we need to work together, as a single individual cannot bear the burden alone. While one person can initiate action, it is essential for a dedicated group of individuals to come together to drive the necessary change. We cannot afford to idly sit by, endlessly complaining about our problems, until we become too weary to voice our concerns and resign ourselves to fate. This pattern of learned helplessness must be overcome.

When we find ourselves caught in conversations that often devolve into venting and complaining, it’s essential to consider a different approach. Instead of simply dwelling on the issues, we can shift our focus toward planning, strategizing, and implementing our ideas.

While individuals can certainly make an impact, it is through the collaboration of various stakeholders, such as private entities, public institutions, and civil society organizations (CSOs), that a core group of dedicated individuals can be established, actively working toward societal change. It is crucial to foster an environment where more people take responsibility for their actions and actively contribute to solving the problems that surround us.

So, the next time you find yourself engaged in a conversation that revolves around problems, try redirecting the discourse toward actionable solutions that can lead to real change. Identify like-minded individuals who are willing to join forces and take action. By doing so, we can collectively create a brighter future for Nigeria.