INTERFAITH DIALOGUE AS A TOOL FOR CONFLICT PREVENTION AND NATIONAL UNITY

Abstract

This paper examines interfaith dialogue as a strategic and theologically grounded tool for conflict prevention and the promotion of national unity, with particular reference to the Nigerian context. Nigeria, as one of Africa's most religiously diverse nations, has witnessed recurring cycles of religiously motivated violence, sectarian tensions, and identity-based conflicts that have threatened its corporate existence as a nation. The paper argues that interfaith dialogue, when properly understood, institutionalized, and practically implemented, offers a credible and sustainable pathway toward de-escalating religious tensions, fostering mutual understanding among diverse faith communities, and building the kind of social cohesion necessary for national unity. Drawing on Gordon Allport's Contact Theory (1954) as its theoretical anchor, the paper explores the conceptual intersections between dialogue, peacebuilding, and national integration. It reviews the historical trajectory of religious conflicts in Nigeria and identifies structural, political, and theological factors that have either facilitated or impeded meaningful dialogue between Christian and Muslim communities as well as African Traditional Religion practitioners. The paper further examines the roles of key institutions, religious leaders, and civil society actors in promoting interfaith engagement, while critically assessing the limitations and challenges that continue to undermine dialogue efforts in Nigeria. The findings of this paper affirm that authentic interfaith dialogue transcends mere conversation and becomes a transformative social and theological enterprise capable of reshaping attitudes, dismantling prejudice, and constructing new frameworks of national belonging. The paper concludes with targeted recommendations for religious leaders, governments, educational institutions, and civil society organizations committed to using dialogue as a lever of national unity and conflict prevention.