THE CHALLENGES OF NATION-BUILDING: A HISTORICAL EVALUATION OF NIGERIA’S EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Nation-building remains a fundamental challenge in Nigeria, a multi-ethnic society where political stability, social cohesion, and economic development have been persistently undermined. Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has struggled to foster a unified national identity due to deep-rooted ethnic divisions, political instability, corruption, economic disparities, and security threats. These issues have continued to obstruct efforts toward national integration and sustainable development. This study seeks to examine the obstacles impeding Nigeria’s nation-building process and explore viable solutions to address them. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, the study relies on secondary data sources, including scholarly articles, government reports, and historical accounts, to analyze the complexities of Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape. The research is anchored in the Social Contract Theory, which emphasizes the role of governance in ensuring collective progress and national unity. The study highlights the significance of good governance, inclusive economic policies, and institutional reforms in overcoming the nation’s challenges. Findings indicate that weak democratic institutions, ethnic-based political alignments, and socio-economic inequalities have significantly hindered national cohesion. Furthermore, governance failures have exacerbated mistrust among citizens, weakening the prospects for sustainable nation-building. The study concludes that achieving a cohesive national identity requires deliberate efforts toward political inclusion, equitable resource distribution, and enhanced security measures. It recommends strengthening democratic institutions, promoting civic education, and fostering inter-ethnic dialogue to bridge existing divides. Ultimately, a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive development is imperative for advancing Nigeria’s nation-building aspirations.