Although the book is subtitled “How to Influence Change in Nigeria,” the lessons it offers are universal. The examples come not only from Nigeria, but also from other African countries and elsewhere, demonstrating that the quest to influence change transcends borders. Many of the principles outlined in the book can be applied to a variety of contexts, making them relevant to change-makers around the world.
It's Impossible: Influencing Change in Nigeria is a practical blueprint for change-makers. The author offers valuable strategies and guidance for organizing effective change interventions. These strategies are not just theoretical concepts, but are based on real-life examples of important change movements, highlighting both their success factors and potential risks and pitfalls. These are lessons that are not typically taught in school, but are learned through practical experience.
In addition to offering practical advice, the author analyses four very interesting case studies: the #EndSARS movement and the raid in Abuja, Nigeria; the citizen revolution in Burkina Faso; and the M23 movement in Senegal. These examples illustrate the complexities of influencing change in different contexts.
Here are five things I love about the book and why I think it's worth reading:
- Universal relevance: Although the book is subtitled Influencing Change in Nigeria, the lessons it offers are universal. The examples come not only from Nigeria, but also from other African countries and elsewhere, demonstrating that the quest to influence change transcends borders. Many of the principles outlined in the book can be applied to a variety of contexts, making it relevant to change-makers around the world.
- Guidance for both organizations and individuals: While the book offers strategies for organizations, the author recognizes that these organizations are driven by individuals. Often, those working on change initiatives are deeply connected to the problems they are addressing. By addressing both organizational structures and the people behind them, the book contributes to creating a “stronger ecosystem of change agents with improved interventions.”
- Clarity and accessibility: Every strategy and potential obstacle is clearly outlined and explained in simple, concise language. This makes the book easy to read and understand, even for those who are new to the world of advocacy and change.
- Balanced Perspective: Despite the author's impressive experience in influencing change, the book never reads like a personal autobiography. While he shares some personal experiences, the focus remains on general principles and strategies that can be applied by anyone. This balanced perspective makes the book more appealing and useful to a broader audience, although I must admit that I would love to read a full autobiography from the author someday.
- Valuable Footnotes: Footnotes found throughout the book provide valuable context to the topics discussed and provide additional information to readers unfamiliar with these topics. This attention to detail enhances the educational value of the book and makes it a useful resource for those wishing to deepen their understanding of change movements.
The part of the book that struck me most was the idea that “change is often the result of incremental improvements and that we need to be more measured in judging the success or failure of our interventions.” As someone who began her career in advocacy without any formal training or clear sense of direction, I wish I had had access to a book like this early in my career. It might have helped me avoid some of the frustration and burnout I felt a year into the job, when I considered quitting because I wasn’t seeing the tangible results I expected.
This book should serve as a reference and training material for organizations and individuals working to influence change in any context. I know I will certainly refer to it as I continue down this path.
Adedolapo R. Alabi is a policy advocate pursuing a Masters in Development Management at the University of Antwerp.
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