TRAUMA-INFORMED LEADERSHIP AND FOLLOWERSHIP: A REFLECTION ON 25 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA
Introduction
Nigeria’s 25-year democratic journey has been marked by significant political, economic, and social transformations. However, this period has also been characterized by recurring cycles of trauma, violence, and collective suffering. As the country continues to grapple with the complexities of democratic governance, it is essential to examine the impact of trauma on followership and leadership. This article explores the concept of trauma-informed followership, its relevance to Nigeria’s democratic experience, and the implications for fostering a more resilient and inclusive society.
Understanding Trauma-Informed Followership
Trauma-informed followership acknowledges the profound effects of trauma on individuals, communities, and societal structures. It recognizes that followership is not just about passive obedience but active engagement, participation, and shared responsibility. Trauma-informed followership encourages leaders to prioritize empathy, understanding, and the creation of safe spaces for marginalized voices to emerge. This approach recognizes that trauma can be perpetuated or alleviated through leadership and followership dynamics.
Nigeria’s Democratic Trauma
Nigeria’s democratic history is marked by episodes of political violence, economic instability, and social unrest. The country has struggled to address the lingering effects of:
Colonialism and cultural erasure
Civil war and internal conflicts
Military rule and political repression
Ongoing challenges such as corruption, inequality, and insecurity
These traumas have resulted in:
1. Intergenerational trauma and historical wounds
2. Collective suffering and social fragmentation
3. Eroded trust in leadership and institutions
4. Perpetuation of cycles of violence and trauma
REFLECTIONS ON 25 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY
The last 25 years have seen significant advancements in Nigeria’s democratic journey, including:
Transition from military rule to civilian governance
Consolidation of democratic institutions
Expansion of civil society and media freedom
However, this period has also been marred by:
Political violence and electoral malpractices
Economic instability and corruption
Social inequality and marginalization
Insecurity and terrorism
These challenges have perpetuated trauma and undermined social cohesion, trust, and democratic progress.
TOWARDS TRAUMA-INFORMED FOLLOWERSHIP IN NIGERIA: BREAKING THE CYCLES OF TRAUMA AND FOSTER A MORE RESILIENT DEMOCRACY
In order to break these cycles of trauma and foster a more resilient democracy, Nigeria must adopt a trauma-informed approach to followership and leadership.
This requires Nigeria to:
1. Acknowledge And Confront The Past
Nigeria must confront its history of colonialism, civil war, military rule, and political repression. This includes acknowledging the trauma inflicted on individuals, communities, and ethnic groups, and taking steps to address historical injustices.
2. Foster A Culture Of Empathy And Understanding
Encourage leaders and citizens to prioritize empathy and understanding in their interactions, particularly in situations involving marginalized communities.
3. Promote Inclusive Governance
Ensure that leadership positions and decision-making processes reflect the diversity of Nigerian society, including gender, ethnicity, religion, and geographic representation.
4. Support Trauma-Informed Initiatives
Invest in mental health services, community programs, and initiatives that address the intergenerational effects of trauma.
5. Encourage Participatory Governance
Foster a culture of active citizenship, public engagement, and participatory decision-making processes, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
6. Address Corruption And Inequality
Implement policies and programs that address systemic corruption and inequality, which perpetuate trauma and undermine trust in leadership.
7. Foster A Culture Of Accountability
Ensure that leaders and institutions are held accountable for their actions, and that there are consequences for perpetuating trauma and violence.
8. Support Community-Led Initiatives
Empower local communities to develop their own trauma-informed initiatives and programs, tailored to their specific needs and contexts.
9. Encourage Intergenerational Dialogue
Facilitate conversations between generations to address historical traumas, promote understanding, and build bridges between communities.
10. Prioritize Education And Awareness
Integrate trauma-informed approaches into education systems, community programs, and public awareness campaigns to promote a culture of understanding and empathy.
Strategies for Implementation
These strategies can help Nigeria address the root causes of trauma, promote healing and reconciliation, and build a more resilient and inclusive democracy.
1. Training And Capacity Building In Trauma-Informed Approaches
• Provide training and capacity-building programs for leaders and public officials on trauma-informed approaches, focusing on understanding trauma, its effects, and strategies for addressing it.
• Incorporate trauma-informed leadership into existing leadership development programs and curricula.
• Encourage leaders to prioritize empathy, understanding, and the creation of safe spaces for marginalized voices to emerge.
• Foster a culture of self-reflection and accountability among leaders, recognizing the impact of their actions on others.
2. Community Engagement And Participatory Governance Initiatives
• Establish community engagement programs that foster active citizenship, public participation, and inclusive decision-making processes.
• Support participatory governance initiatives, such as citizen engagement forums, town hall meetings, and community-led policy initiatives.
• Encourage community-led initiatives and programs that address specific needs and contexts.
• Foster partnerships between community organizations, civil society, and government institutions to promote collaborative governance.
3. Policy Reforms Addressing Historical And Ongoing Trauma
• Conduct a comprehensive review of existing policies and laws to identify areas that perpetuate trauma and inequality.
• Develop and implement policy reforms that address historical and ongoing trauma, such as reparations, truth-telling initiatives, and memorialization projects.
• Establish policies and programs that promote healing and reconciliation, such as trauma-informed healthcare and education initiatives.
• Ensure that policy reforms prioritize the needs and perspectives of marginalized communities.
4. Investment in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services
• Increase funding for mental health and psychosocial support services, prioritizing marginalized communities and areas affected by trauma.
• Establish community-based mental health programs and services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Integrate trauma-informed approaches into existing healthcare services, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
• Support research and development of culturally appropriate mental health interventions and services.
5. Promotion Of A Culture Of Inclusivity And Respect By Those In Leadership Positions
• Implement policies and programs that promote inclusive and diverse representation in leadership positions, including gender, ethnicity, religion, and geographic representation.
• Establish mentorship programs and leadership development initiatives that support marginalized communities and individuals.
• Encourage representation of diverse perspectives and experiences in decision-making processes and policy development.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity and respect, recognizing the value of diverse leadership and perspectives.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s 25-year democratic journey has been marked by significant challenges and opportunities. Adopting a trauma-informed approach to followership and leadership offers a path forward, enabling my dear country Nigeria to confront its complex history, build resilience, and create a more just and equitable society by prioritizing empathy, understanding, and inclusive participation, Nigeria can harness the collective potential of its citizens and foster a brighter future for generations to come.
© Anthonia Bisola Otunla
Traumatic Stress Specialist
Mandela Washington Fellow
Trauma Research Foundation Scholar
------------------------------
Anthonia Otunla
Consultant, Traumatic Stress and Recovery
Thrive Metamorphosis Healthcare
Lagos
+2348155736833
------------------------------