COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF ETHNIC POLITICS AND ITS ROLE IN NATION BUILDING IN NIGERIA; CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES (2009-2023)
Abstract
Nigeria's ethnic diversity influences its politics, with colonial policies exacerbating divisions. Leaders like Azikiwe and Awolowo advocated for national unity and regional interests, highlighting the tension between ethnic identity and national cohesion. Ethnic challenges remain significant in Nigerian politics, requiring further examination for national development from 2009 to 2023. Specifically, this study aims to; assess how ethnic politics in Nigeria evolved between 2009 and 2023, its implications for nation-building efforts, examine the socio-economic effect of ethnic politics on different regions of Nigeria and explore the consequences of external factors of ethic politics on nation-building initiatives. In deriving relevant data for the study, a secondary source of data was used. The secondary sources of data are newspapers, journals, government official documents, books, the internet, non-governmental organizations periodic reports, and other literature materials or articles related to the study. The use of secondary sources of data provided large information for effective presentation of thoughts, perceptions, and scholars' opinions on the concept under study. The discussion of the findings revealed that ethnic politics in Nigeria, shaped by colonial history, impact nation-building significantly. Boko Haram's emergence heightened North-South tensions, while President Buhari's rule raised perceptions of bias. Calls for restructuring and autonomy aim to address grievances amidst ethnic governance challenges. Regional socio-economic disparities persist, with the North facing issues, the Southwest benefitting from good governance, and the Southeast and Niger Delta grappling with marginalization and resource exploitation. Colonial legacies and globalization complicate matters, underscoring the importance of constructive foreign involvement in fostering inclusive nation-building.
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