Lobbying for balancing interest and policy outcomes, By Mariam Lawal

Contrary to common misconceptions, lobbying is neither unethical nor illegal.

…lobbying plays a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s policies and regulations, with organisations employing both direct and indirect methods to advocate for favorable outcomes. While lobbying itself is not inherently unethical, its practice in Nigeria is often clouded by concerns over transparency and corruption. To ensure that lobbying contributes positively to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, a more transparent and accountable regulatory framework is urgently needed.

In Nigeria, as organisations strive to shape policy and regulatory frameworks in their favour, understanding lobbying within the local context becomes essential. Lobbying in Nigeria has undergone significant evolution, reflecting shifts in its political and economic structures. During the colonial period, the British government maintained strict control over economic policies, limiting the influence of local and international entities. However, post-independence, Nigeria’s government began playing a more active role in economic management, prompting businesses and organisations to recognise the importance of engaging with policymakers. This signaled a shift towards organised lobbying efforts aimed at protecting their interests.

Nigeria’s tumultuous political history, marked by military coups and extended periods of military rule, has significantly shaped lobbying practices. During these regimes, lobbying often relied heavily on informal networks, where personal connections and patronage systems served as the primary channels for gaining favour with military leaders. These networks became the main avenue for individuals seeking special treatment to advance their interests. However, since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the country has witnessed a more structured and transparent approach to policy-making. Organisations now often engage in formalised lobbying through industry associations and professional lobbyists, who work to influence legislative and regulatory outcomes.

Lobbying in Nigeria manifests in two principal forms: direct and indirect lobbying. Direct lobbying involves organisations engaging lawmakers, government officials, or regulatory bodies through meetings, written proposals, or public testimonies. A notable example of direct lobbying can be found in the book Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management, which highlights how the Comptroller-General, Mr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, successfully lobbied the Senate Committee to secure employment slots for residents of border communities. This type of advocacy illustrates the power of lobbying in addressing specific community needs. Conversely, indirect lobbying focuses on influencing policy through media engagement or public relations campaigns. For instance, the Nigerian Customs Service garnered stakeholder support for the passage of the new Customs Act of 2023, with Honourable Leke Abejide, chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, acknowledging lobbying’s pivotal role in the bill’s success. These examples demonstrate how strategic alliances and public support are crucial in driving policy reforms.

Contrary to common misconceptions, lobbying is neither unethical nor illegal. It serves as a legitimate channel for advocacy, enabling organisations to communicate with lawmakers and regulators to influence laws or policies that align with their interests. Lobbying often involves meetings, public awareness campaigns, or presenting decision-makers with critical data to inform policy decisions.

Organisations in Nigeria frequently join industry associations to collectively advocate for their interests, presenting a united front in policy discussions. In recent years, professional lobbyists and government relations firms have become increasingly prominent, offering businesses strategic guidance in navigating Nigeria’s complex political and regulatory environment. Although such firms remain relatively few, they play a crucial role in shaping policy outcomes by providing specialised expertise and insights into the political landscape.

Corporate lobbying has profoundly impacted Nigeria’s economic policies, particularly in key sectors such as oil and gas, telecommunications, and banking. Lobbying efforts have shaped tax policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment incentives, as businesses regularly advocate for favourable regulations and push back against measures that could increase operational costs. In the oil sector, lobbying was instrumental in shaping the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), illustrating how corporate interests play a pivotal role in policy formulation. Additionally, lobbying extends to social and environmental policies, with some organisations advocating for progressive regulations while others have faced criticism for opposing stricter standards.

As lobbying continues to influence the country’s economic landscape, there is a growing demand for a more transparent regulatory framework to govern lobbying activities in Nigeria. Ensuring transparency and accountability is essential for building public trust in government institutions. Policymakers must balance corporate interests with public welfare to prevent lobbying from undermining democratic processes or leading to policy capture. Emerging trends such as digital lobbying and the use of data analytics allow organisations to develop more targeted and effective strategies. Increasing public awareness around issues like transparency and anti-corruption is expected to shape the future of lobbying in Nigeria. The current lack of visibility in lobbying practices can lead to a deterioration of public perception, which can be countered through public relations efforts advocating for accountability and transparency. A solid reputation fosters successful lobbying activities and simplifies the process of convincing policymakers.

Despite the potential benefits of lobbying, several challenges hinder its practice in Nigeria. One significant issue is the absence of a comprehensive legal framework governing lobbying. The Code of Conduct for Public Officers should be refined to establish clearer policies guiding lobbying practices and ensuring adherence to ethical standards. Transparency, or the lack thereof, remains a critical challenge; the secretive nature of many lobbying activities fosters suspicions of undue influence and corruption. More transparent reporting of lobbying activities is essential to improving public perception and trust. Moreover, there is often a thin line between lobbying and corruption, as informal payments, favours, and patronage are commonly used to influence policy decisions. This blurs the distinction between ethical lobbying and bribery, complicating efforts to regulate the practice.

In conclusion, lobbying plays a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s policies and regulations, with organisations employing both direct and indirect methods to advocate for favorable outcomes. While lobbying itself is not inherently unethical, its practice in Nigeria is often clouded by concerns over transparency and corruption. To ensure that lobbying contributes positively to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, a more transparent and accountable regulatory framework is urgently needed. As Nigeria’s political and economic environment continues to evolve, businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders must adapt to emerging trends, working collaboratively to foster a more ethical and effective lobbying environment. By adopting the right strategies and aligning with trusted partners, organisations can play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s future, creating an environment where public interests and corporate advocacy can coexist harmoniously.

Mariam Lawal can be reached through the email: mariamlawal546@gmail.com