A Social Analysis of Identity Discrimination, Identity Conflict and Nation Building in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria is no doubt a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Its ethno-religious diversity which is a source of national strength has become dysfunctional to national integration. The common questions Nigerians ask one another whenever they meet are: what tribe are you? Are you a Christian or Moslem? Which state and or local government do you hail from? Pathetically, one’s identity is defined by the cultural environment he or she hails from. Using these forms of social construct to identify and relate with one another by citizens of one nation fans the embers of identity discrimination and conflicts that creates a zone of non-convergence of social identity with national identity. In its analysis, the paper argued that the classical civilization that created social identity discrimination, the political culture and attitude that upholds and sustains it from the colonial era till date are no longer compatible with the requirements of national identity formation and nation building in contemporary Nigeria. The paper called for the convergence of social identities and the dialectical interest it produces into a national identity, interest and culture that abrogates discriminatory identity landmarks as a means to fostering the collective vision, identity and commitments to building a more united country called Nigeria.