The Effects of Religious Crisis on Economic Development in Nigeria

There’s no gain saying that crisis is a great predicament in any human society and most times, it is predictable. In fact, history indicates that crisis is a continuous process in human relations and may occur within and among groups and communities at anytime. In the case of Nigeria, the persistent religious crisis and insecurity has given Nigerians a cause for concern in recent times. Many wonder why religion which used to be the cohesive factor and core of national unity, peaceful co-existence and national development has become a tool for violence and destruction of lives and property in Nigeria, looking at it from the northern part between 2007 and 2017 has left adverse effects on the Nigerian economy. This paper examined one on one Dialogue as a catalyst for resolving crises and enhancing national security and economic development in Nigeria. It also reviewed some religious violence and crises experience in Nigeria together with their causes, and effects particularly, on economic development.
This paper utilized both secondary source and observation method. Findings showed that religious crises are endemic in Nigeria in the last two decades. The Christians and the Muslims adherents have fought wars in Nigeria than they had actually sought, for peace, thereby threatening peaceful co-existence, national security, and economic development in the country. The study concluded and recommended that the government should employ meaningful ways such as establishment of Federal ministry of religious and Federal dialogue resolution to enhance peaceful co-existence among the citizen and economic development.