Abstract:
This article examines the extent to which ethno-religious conflicts have affected sustainable
development in Nigeria. The destruction of lives and property by reckless ethnic and religious
extremists has been a challenging key factor to sustainable development in Nigeria. This article
aims to reflect on the ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria from an epistemological point of view,
ascertain the major causes of these conflicts and seek solutions to address the root causes. The
article concludes that religious intolerance among Nigerians from different religious groups is
the result of the misinterpretation of religious teachings of the leaders of terrorist groups to their
followers and that ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria affect sustainable development as they
lead to loss of lives and destruction of property, among others. It is also indicated that the effects
of ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria lead to an increase in the unemployment rate, withdrawal
of foreign investments and education imbalance. The article concludes by arguing that ethnicity
and religious crises are unhealthy for the nation’s sustainable development and that no price
paid in the direction of resolving these conflicts can be considered to be too much. It is
recommended that religious leaders form the minds of Nigerians with the teaching of love and
peace, as it is proclaimed in their various religious books and beliefs.
CONTRIBUTION: This article brought to light the major factors instigating continuous ethnoreligious conflict in Nigeria that has led to much social unrest. Theological reflection of the
influence of religion in promoting peaceful coexisting environment was analysed. This work
would be of immense benefit to religious bodies, government, civil society and students.
