HARMONIZING NIGERIA'S FEDERAL GOVERNANCE WITH RELIGIOUS PLURALISM: STRIKING THE OPTIMAL BALANCE FOR NATIONAL ADVANCEMENT.

ABSTRACT

Consequent to our findings, the following conclusions could be drawn. From the interpretation of the data and hypothesis tested, there is truly a northern and southern dictionary which makes the Northerners predominant Muslims and the Southerners predominant Christians. It is a truism that religion in Nigeria has been politicized by some selfish and wicked individuals in the country due to their stupidity. Religious politicization 63 can affect the country's federal system of government negatively, therefore religion should act as an agent of positive socialization and gear the people towards achieving the goal of nation-building and protection of the country's federal system of government in a negative way, therefore religion should act as agent of positive socialization and gearing the people towards achieving the goal of nation building and protection of the country's federal system, thereby, playing an advisory role and not an active role in politics. It has also been concluded that religious sectarianism has led to political tension in the country and the constant sectarian crisis can lead to the disintegration of Nigeria's federal system. However, collective bargaining, pro-activeness of the government and re-commitment of religious leaders towards the protection of Nigeria's integrity will help curb religious sectarian activities. Religious harmonization among various religious sects can lead to political and economic development. There is an urgent need to settle the religious conflict and tension arising from the Northern part of Nigeria. Religious harmonization is sine-qua-non to the achievement of the goal of nation-building and development in Nigeria, and everybody has a role to play.