Cultural influences on crisis communication strategies in Nigeria

Kalita Joseph Aruku; Joseph Ikangkang; Charles Ushie Utsu; Linus Ejunka Emuru

doi:10.58881/jllscs.v3i2.350

Authors

Kalita Joseph Aruku University of Calabar, NIGERIA https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8062-1697
Joseph Ikangkang University of Calabar NIGERIA
Charles Ushie Utsu University of Calabar NIGERIA
Linus Ejunka Emuru University of Calabar NIGERIA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58881/jllscs.v3i2.350

Keywords:

cultural influences, communication crisis, social identity theory, collectivism, power distance

Abstract

In an era characterized by globalization and rapid information exchange, the role of cultural influences in crisis communication strategies has become increasingly significant. This study explores the unique cultural dynamics that shape crisis communication in Nigeria, a nation marked by its rich diversity and complex socio-political landscape. Employing a case study analysis methodology, this research integrates three theoretical frameworks: Cultural Dimension Theory, Situational Crisis Communication Theory, and Social Identity Theory. These theories provide a robust foundation for understanding how cultural factors affect communication during crises and the perception of organizations by various stakeholders. Through an examination of key case studies within the Nigerian context, the findings reveal that cultural dimensions such as collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance significantly influence the efficacy of crisis communication strategies. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of aligning communication practices with cultural expectations to foster trust and facilitate effective engagement with diverse audiences. This research contributes to the broader field of crisis communication by elucidating the intersection of culture and communication strategies, offering valuable insights for practitioners in Nigeria and beyond. By implementing these recommendations, organizations in Nigeria can enhance their crisis communication strategies, fostering greater trust and resilience in the face of adversity. Understanding and integrating cultural influences into crisis communication not only strengthens organizational reputation but also contributes to social cohesion and community well-being during challenging times.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Adebayo, A. (2018). The role of local radio in crisis communication: A study of Nigeria. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 62(4), 627-645.

Adetunji, A. (2021). The Role of Communication in Crisis Management: Lessons from Nigeria. Journal of Communication Studies, 12(3), 45-58.

Akintunde, S., Oladeji, A., & Yusuf, I. (2019). Cultural Contexts and Communication Strategies in Nigeria: A Study of Crisis Communication. Journal of African Communication Research, 7(1), 34-50.

Akinyemi, A. (2016). Cultural Diversity and Its Implication on Communication in Nigeria. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 8(1), 45-56.

Baba, S., & Kola, M. (2020). Community Leadership and Crisis Response: The Case of Nigeria. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 42, 101-110.

Benoit, W. L. (1995). Accounts, excuses, and apologies: A theory of image restoration strategies. Albany: State University of New York Press.

Coombs, W. T. (2015). Ongoing crisis communication: Planning, managing, and responding. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.

Coombs, W. T. (2007). Ongoing Crisis Communication: Planning, Managing, and Responding. Sage Publications.

Entman, R. M. (1993). Framing: Toward clarification of a fractured paradigm. Journal of Communication, 43(4), 51-58.

Gonzalez-Herrero, A., & Pratt, C. B. (1995). How to manage a crisis before, during, and after. Public Relations Review, 21(3), 245-260.

Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond culture. New York: Anchor Books.

Hofstede, G. (1980). Culture's consequences: International differences in work-related values. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage Publications.

Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's Consequences: Comparing Values, Behaviors, Institutions, and Organizations Across Nations. Sage Publications.

Ibrahim, A., & Ojo, A. (2020). Media access and the dynamics of crisis communication in Nigeria. Journal of Communication Studies, 25(2), 45-60.

Ibrahim, T., & Melek, H. (2020). Effective Communication in Crisis Management: Lessons from Nigeria. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 49, 101-115.

Katz, D., & Kahn, R. L. (1978). The Social Psychology of Organizations. New York: Wiley.

Khan, A., Ogoina, D., & Mbah, I. (2016). Social Media and the Chibok Girls’ Abduction: Examining the Role of Civil Society Organizations. International Journal of Communication, 10, 3265-3283.

McNair, B. (2011). Journalism and Democracy: An Evaluation of the Literature. Routledge.

Nwankwo, U. (2018). Cultural diversity in Nigeria: Implications for national development. African Journal of Social Sciences, 8(3), 52-65.

Odebiyi, A., Afolabi, M., & Omole, O. (2018). Language and Crisis Communication in Nigeria: Bridging the Gap. Journal of Language and Communication, 4(2), 45-62.

Odugbemi, J., & Clegg, J. (2019). The role of community leadership in crisis communication: Evidence from Nigeria. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 34, 118-127.

Okunola, O. J., & Idowu, A. (2019). Addressing communication disparities in rural Nigeria: An analysis of the challenges and opportunities. International Journal of Development Communication, 5(2), 48-67.

Oladipo, S. O., & Odugbemi, O. (2018). "Digital Divide in Nigeria: Access to Technology and Information." Journal of Communication, 9(2), 45-56.

Ogwo, E. E., & Igwe, U. (2021). "Crisis Management in Nigeria: The Role of Traditional Authority in Information Dissemination." African Journal of Communication, 10(3), 101-120.

Ojeifo, A., & Okoosi, I. (2021). The Role of Community Leaders in Crisis Communication: Insights from Nigerian Communities. African Journal of Communication, 3(1), 12-25

Olum, R., Chekwech, G., Wekha, G., & Nassozi, R. (2020). COVID-19: The Role of Community Health Workers in Mitigating the Impact of the Pandemic in Nigeria. Journal of Health Communication, 25(12), 1089- 1096.

Ojo, T. (2018). Ebola and Crisis Communication in Nigeria: Lessons for Future Preparedness. Nigerian Journal of Public Health, 12(2), 45-59.

Owoaje, E. T., Dairo, M. D., & Balogun, M. O. (2015). Health Communication during the Ebola Virus Disease Outbreak in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of Public Health in Africa, 6(1), 548.

Omenugha, K., & Nwankwo, U. (2019). Language and crisis communication in Nigeria: Bridging the gap. Journal of Language and Communication Studies, 10(1), 17-34.

Omodia, S. A. (2019). Ethnic Identity and Crisis Response in Nigeria. Journal of African Communication Research, 2(1), 1-18.

Renshon, S. A. (2017). Social Identity in Crisis Communication: How Group Dynamics Affect the Perception of Crisis Responses. International Journal of Strategic Communication, 11(1), 43-58.

Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). An Integrative Theory of Intergroup Conflict. In The Social Psychology of Intergroup Relations (pp. 33-47). Brooks/Cole.

Trompenaars, F., & Hampden-Turner, C. (2012). Riding the waves of culture: Understanding diversity in global business. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Udeh, F. (2020). Communication Channels and Crisis Management in Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis. Nigerian Journal of Communication Studies, 6(2), 99-114.

Umeora, O. (2020). Cultural dimensions of crisis communication in Nigeria: A framework for effective response. African Journal of Communication, 3(2), 21-30.

World Bank. (2018). "Nigeria: Overview." Retrieved from World Bank Website.

Zaharna, R. S. (2010). "The Global Crisis of Communication: Cultural Dimensions of Crisis Communication." International Journal of Strategic Communication, 4(2), 132-152.