Balancing Western and Traditional Values: The Path Forward for Nigeria and Niger Republic
Aderogba Otunla, Ph.D.
Managing Director | Google Workspace Expert for Emerging Markets
In the ever-evolving global landscape, nations grapple with the challenge of merging foreign values with their deeply rooted traditions. Two such countries are Nigeria and the Niger Republic. Both nations stand at a crossroads, balancing Western and traditional values to carve out a path for their future.
"We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." This Native American proverb reminds us of the importance of striking a balance between the past, present, and future. When juxtaposing Western and traditional values, it becomes evident that both have merits and pitfalls.
Western Values: A Double-Edged Sword
On one hand, there are certain Western values that might not serve the best interest of Nigeria and Niger Republic. Chief among them is the unbridled pursuit of profit. As economist Milton Friedman once said, "The business of business is business." Yet, when profit becomes the ultimate goal, it often sidelines human values and welfare. Similarly, the concept of the survival of the fittest – where the strong dominate the weak – can lead to a society fragmented by power and wealth disparities. Another Western value, the supremacy of the individual over the community, may not align with the deep communal roots present in both Nigerian and Nigerien cultures.
Conversely, some Western values can undoubtedly be beneficial. The belief in human rights, for instance, transcends borders. As Eleanor Roosevelt remarked, "Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home." These small places are as relevant in New York as in Niamey. Similarly, democracy, often regarded as a Western value, finds its essence in representation and voice – fundamental to every human society. Lastly, the rule of law establishes a system of checks and balances ensuring justice and equity, foundational pillars for any nation.
Traditional Values: Preserving the Essence
The tapestry of traditional values in Nigeria and Niger Republic is rich and intricate. However, like any fabric, it may have some threads that need mending. A belief that women are inferior to men or that violence is a solution to conflict contradicts the universality of human rights and equity. As novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie said, "Culture does not make people. People make culture. If it is true that the full humanity of women is not our culture, then we can and must make it our culture."
Yet, the heart of traditional values beats strongly with principles that resonate universally. Community, cooperation, and respect for elders have always been the bedrock of African societies. Ubuntu, an African philosophy, encapsulates this sentiment best: "I am because we are." This interconnectedness, the understanding that one's actions impact the whole, is crucial in today's global village.
The Path Forward: Synergy Over Supremacy
The true path forward for nations like Nigeria and Niger Republic is not about choosing one set of values over another but synergizing the best of both. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, "I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible."
An immediate application of this synergy is evident in the current situation where Nigeria is considering cutting off power supply to Niger Republic. Rather than unilateral decisions, a cooperative dialogue, driven by the principles of community and respect for all parties involved, will yield a more fruitful outcome. Nigeria's move might be economically justified, but the repercussions on ordinary citizens of Niger Republic are severe. A solution, therefore, lies in mutual respect and cooperation, values cherished both traditionally and in the modern world.
Conclusion
In this ever-changing world, nations like Nigeria and Niger Republic can craft a harmonious blend of values that serve their interests best. By embracing the positive facets of both Western and traditional values and shunning the negatives, these countries can herald a brighter, more prosperous future for their citizens. As the ancient African proverb goes, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." It's time to move forward together.
Thank you.
Aderogba Otunla
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DISCLAIMER:
No need to panic, this is just me testing Bard's AI capabilities on multiple things, and using an ongoing story approach on:
Conflict, resolution, regional politics, Nigerian & Niger Republic Traditional values against Western value system, among others.
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