Pages: (55-68 )
Abstract
This paper examines the complexities surrounding Nigeria's ethnic pluralism and how the resulting divide has impacted the country's political, social, and economic landscape in the post-colonial era. Drawing on social identity theory and conflict theory, the paper illustrates the connection between political crisis, identity reflection, ethnic categorisation, and national cohesion; the latter three being the integral roots of either a cohesive nation or, otherwise, a divided nation. However, this paper aims to address the current state of national division in Nigeria, which stems from the existing case of ethnic pluralism. Gathering data to understand and solve the problem statement of this paper was exploratory, involving a canvass and desk research of various journals, conference papers, reports, and other relevant documents. The researcher observed, through the collection of the various data studied, that the inability of Nigeria to build national cohesion has limited the growth and development level of the country, given the practicality of division experienced in Nigeria in cases such as the Jos crisis, the Niger Delta Militants, the Fulani Herdsmen killing and others. These conflicts reflect the current state of progress in achieving national cohesion in Nigeria. Proposed recommendations, including the development of a proper federalism framework, social integration programs, and national identities over ethnic ones, as well as inclusive governance, were offered to eliminate ethnic divides and promote national cohesion in Nigeria, thereby aiding in the development of a sustained nation-state.
Keywords: Postcolonial Nigeria, Ethnic Divide, Crisis, Social Identity, Conflict Theory,