ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLORS IN MEDIATING FAMILY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD DISPUTES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Family and Neighbourhood Disputes in Nigeria often stem from cultural dif erences, financial strains, and communication breakdowns, threatening social harmony and community stability. Professional counsellors play a pivotal role in mediating such conflicts by integrating psychological insight, conflict resolution skills, and cultural competence. Drawing on transformative mediation, humanistic counselling, systems theory, and narrative approaches, counsellors provide safe, neutral spaces that foster empathy, dialogue, and collaborative problem-solving. Their interventions address not only surface disagreements but also the underlying emotional and relational dynamics that legal remedies frequently overlook. In family settings, counsellors manage disputes involving marital breakdowns, parent-child tensions, inheritance, and blended family challenges, while in neighbourhoods, they resolve conflicts over property, noise, and cultural misunderstandings. Challenges such as power imbalances, confidentiality dilemmas, and cultural sensitivity underscore the ethical complexities of this work. Nonetheless, through community-based mediation, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, and public awareness programmes, counsellors significantly contribute to social cohesion. The paper suggets policy integration of counselling into Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), capacity building, ethical oversight, and ongoing research to strengthen practice. Ultimately, counsellors not only resolve immediate disputes but also build resilience, healthier communication patterns, and stronger family and community bonds. Their role is essential in promoting sustainable peace, cultural respect, and long-term well-being in Nigerian society.