Language and Religion: Veritable Tools for National Peace in Nigeria

Abstract

No nation can develop in an atmosphere devoid of peace for it is the basis for 
every meaningful development. This is why national peace is the primary 
target of every nation, especially the developing countries. To achieve this goal 
effectively, the collaborative effort of every citizen is required. It is obvious 
that Nigeria is a country with diversity of tribe with different cultures, 
languages and different religious affiliations. The peculiarities of different 
languages and religious ideologies as unique as they appear, if properly 
harnessed and harmonised could foster national peace. Observations in some 
studies have shown that misuse of religion and inappropriate use of language 
are banes that confront Nigeria national peace. It is therefore, the interest of 
this paper to bridge “Language and Religion as Veritable Tools for National 
Peace in Nigeria”. The introduction provides the background information on 
the key concepts of the topic. This was followed by conceptual definitions of 
language and religion, language choice in conflict resolution and the role of 
religion and language as veritable tools for national peace. The paper 
concludes that to achieve national peace, tolerance and unity should take 
priority over ethnic and religious bigotry. It was therefore, recommended that tolerance and unity must be taught by all the stakeholders and live by 
example for peace to reign in the country.