National Identity and Conflict Prevention in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between national identity and conflict prevention in Nigeria rather than conflict resolution which has been the main focus of many scholars. Using the descriptive survey design, through the coding and analysis of 150 purposively selected and administered questionnaires, the study discovers the lapses in the various efforts channeled toward conflict prevention by Nigerian Security Forces in maintaining law and order in society. The research equally found that Nigeria's conflicts are both religious and political in nature. The efforts to control the state by some ethnic (majority groups) and resistance by minority groups have fueled the crisis in the nation. The study concludes by stressing the positive impacts of National identity on conflict prevention and recommends that emphasis should be placed on national identity as a way of conflict prevention rather than the seemingly fruitless efforts placed on ammunition and expansion of security forces.