DEMYSTIFYING COMMUNICATION: AN INTRODUCTION TO ITS ESSENCE AND SIGNIFICANCE

Communication, a daily aspect of human interaction, remains elusive for many. This is evident in the failings of some individuals, including English speakers, taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Designed to assess English language proficiency and measure comprehension, a critical component of effective communication, these tests are difficult, because they underscore how complex and nuanced the act of conveying and interpreting messages can be.

If we are to be honest, we comprehend words based on bias and emotions and not the intent to understand what is being communicated. For this reason, the importance of communication, at its core, cannot be overstated because it is the exchange of information between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behaviour.

Crucial in every aspect of life, from personal relationships to professional settings, from small group interactions to mass media broadcasts, communication fosters understanding, builds relationships, facilitates cooperation, and can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and missed opportunities.

The impact of the quality of communication conveyed is necessary, as good communication can create a positive environment, where clarity and understanding prevail. It enhances productivity, boosts morale, and fosters a culture of openness and trust. For instance, in a corporate setting, clear and consistent communication from management can align employees with the company’s goals, motivate them to perform better, and reduce the potential for conflict. Similarly, in personal relationships effective communication strengthens bonds and resolves issues amicably.

Likewise, in the landscape of political communication, words have the power to uplift, inspire, and instil hope, for example, a quote by the former president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, captures this essence perfectly: "The work of making Nigeria great is not yet done, because I still believe that change is possible, this time through the ballot, and most importantly, because I still have the capacity and the passion to dream and work for a Nigeria that will be respected again in the comity of nations and that all Nigerians will be proud of."

This quote exemplifies positive communication, a critical tool for leaders who aim to connect with their populace and galvanize collective action. This type of message plays on the mood of the Nigerian people as it presents:

1. Hope and Optimism: Opening up with an acknowledgement of the unending task of nation-building resonates with the reality that Nigerians face. However, it quickly pivots to a message of hope and optimism, suggesting that change is still possible. This dual recognition of challenges and potential progress helps validate people's experiences while uplifting their spirits.
2. Empowerment Through the Ballot: By emphasizing the words change "through the ballot," the message reinforces the power of democratic processes. It empowers citizens by reminding them that their votes matter and that they have a direct role in shaping their country's future. This can increase voter turnout and civic engagement, fostering a more robust democratic society.
3. Personal Commitment and Passion: The former President’s declaration of his "capacity and passion to dream and work" for Nigeria adds a personal touch that suggests a leader who is capable and deeply committed to the nation's progress. This personal investment builds trust and inspires others to contribute their effort towards a shared goal.

4.?National Pride and International Respect: The aspiration for a Nigeria that is "respected again in the comity of nations" taps into national pride. It acknowledges past glories and suggests a return to a respected status on the global stage, instilling a sense of collective pride that motivates citizens to work towards a brighter future. Moreover, it frames national progress as not only beneficial internally but also significant on an international level.

Conversely, bad communication can have detrimental effects leading to miscommunication or lack of communication that creates confusion, errors, and frustration. In professional settings, this can result in decreased productivity, increased stress, and high turnover rates. In personal relationships, poor communication can cause misunderstandings, resentment, and even breakups. For example, if a team member fails to communicate project updates, it can lead to missed deadlines and unmet objectives, creating a ripple effect of negative consequences.

In addition, the recent comments attributed to Godswill Akpabio, a prominent political figure, underscore the dangers of poor communication. In a statement that has sparked outrage, Akpabio was quoted saying, “We can do anything to protect the lives of President Tinubu and his vice, even if it means sacrificing the lives of all Nigerians.” Such remarks are not only inciteful but also deeply irresponsible, reflecting a disregard for the lives and well-being of ordinary citizens.

In the realm of political discourse, the power of such words cannot be underestimated for the following reasons:

1. Incitement and Irresponsibility

Suggesting a willingness to sacrifice the lives of ordinary citizens to protect high-ranking officials profoundly incites fear and anxiety among citizens, who may feel expendable and unprotected. Such statements can easily inflame public sentiment, leading to unrest and a breakdown in trust between the government and the people.

2. Disregard for Citizens' Lives

At the heart of Akpabio's statement is a blatant disregard for the lives and well-being of ordinary Nigerians, as it damages the credibility of the speaker and the institutions they represent, making it harder to foster unity and cooperation in the future. By suggesting that the lives of President Tinubu and his vice are more valuable than those of the citizens, the comment undermines the fundamental principle of equality and the intrinsic value of every human life. This perception can lead to feelings of devaluation and disenfranchisement among the populace.

3. Erosion of Trust in Leadership

Statements like Senator Akpabio’s suggest a hierarchy of values among citizens that can severely undermine public trust in leadership. When leaders appear to prioritize their safety over the welfare of their citizens, it can create divisions along social, economic, and political lines. This fragmentation weakens the collective resolve needed to address national challenges and undermines efforts toward building a cohesive society, as people are less likely to cooperate with and support a government. This erosion of trust can have long-lasting repercussions, affecting everything from public compliance with laws to participation in democratic processes.

To avoid the pitfalls of irresponsible communication, leaders must prioritize messages that promote inclusivity, equality, and collective well-being. Senator Akpabio could have communicated his intentions more effectively if he forged his message in a way that highlighted equal protection, built trust and reassurance and promoted unity and solidarity. For example, he could have said, “We are committed to ensuring the safety of every Nigerian, including our President and Vice President. In these challenging times, we will take all necessary measures to protect everyone.”

This would have been a better approach to communicate the importance of security measures for all citizens, including the President, without placing one life above another.

The advantages of good communication are manifold. It enhances collaboration, allowing individuals to share ideas and feedback openly and constructively. This collaborative spirit can lead to innovation and problem-solving, as diverse perspectives are considered and integrated. Good communication also builds trust, which is essential for any, personal or professional, relationships. Trust fosters a sense of security and openness, encouraging individuals to express themselves honestly and work together more effectively.

Moreover, good communication skills are crucial for leadership. Leaders who communicate well can inspire and motivate their teams to articulate their vision clearly and navigate crises calmly and precisely. Effective communication also plays a vital role in conflict resolution, enabling parties to understand each other’s viewpoints and reach mutually beneficial solutions.

On the flip side, the disadvantages of bad communication are significant, as it can lead to misunderstandings, where messages are misinterpreted or not received as intended. This can cause conflicts, both minor and major, and erode relationships. Poor communication can also result in missed opportunities, as important information is not conveyed or is overlooked. Poor communication in the workplace can have serious consequences, such as lost deals, failed projects, and damaged reputations.

Additionally, bad communication can create a toxic environment, where gossip, misinformation, and negativity thrive. This can lead to low morale, increased stress, and a high turnover because employees feel undervalued and unheard. In personal relationships, persistent bad communication can lead to a breakdown in trust and emotional disconnect, causing long-term damage.

Interestingly, there are scenarios where bad communication might be strategically advantageous. For example, deliberate ambiguous communication can be used to gain leverage or buy time during negotiations. In certain competitive situations, withholding information or providing incomplete details can be a tactic to outmanoeuvre opponents.

However, such strategies must be used cautiously, as they can backfire and damage long-term relationships and credibility. Also, it is advised that such strategies should not be used in personal relationships like marriages, as open and honest communication is vital. Using this type of communication in such relationships leads to unhealthy competition between spouses.

Ultimately, the importance of good communication is the foundation of effective interaction and collaboration. Whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or broader societal contexts, good communication enables understanding, fosters trust, and drives progress. As individuals and organizations strive to improve their communication skills, they can look forward to enhanced relationships, increased productivity, and a more harmonious environment.

In conclusion, while communication may be challenging to master, its significance in every facet of life is undeniable. By recognizing the effects of good and bad communication and striving to improve our communicative abilities, we can unlock the full potential of our interactions and create a more connected and cohesive world.