Religion, Ethnicity, and National Integration in the Light of Christian Religion

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine how religion and ethnicity can be used to bring about national integration in the light of Christian religion, using Nigeria as case study. Nigeria became an independent nation in 1960 with the hope that the country’s diverse ethnic groups will be integrated to enhance peaceful co-existence, administrative and economic development of the nation. But these have not been significantly achieved. Since the colonial periods and up till now, there have been ethnic and religious crises that made the concept of national integration seem impossible. Ethno-religious crises in Nigeria are deeply rooted and are threatening the very survival of the country as a nation. Often, Nigeria has experienced intra- and inter-religious crises. The question is: how can this violence work for national unity, integration and development? It has negative socio-economic and political consequences for the nation and its citizens. Unresolved grievances are what aggravate ethnic and religious tension and what usually lead to sectarian crises, tribal unrest, bitter political tussles and insurgences, among others. However, the question of national integration is of necessity and not a matter of choice. The study used historical method of analysis for optimal results. The findings reveal that there have been ethnic and religious crises in the country since its inception as an independent nation; there is need to seriously look into the matter in order to proffer lasting solutions to the problem and prevent the disintegration of the country. The study recommends among others that Christian religious principles should be embraced and put into practice by Nigerians in order to promote unity, integration and national development in the country.