The Impact of Internal Boundaries and Ethnic Conflicts on Nation Building in Nigeria

Abstract

This work “The Impact of Internal Boundaries and Ethnic Conflicts on Nation Building in Nigeria” examined the phenomenon of internal boundaries and ethnic conflicts or rivalries in post-colonial Nigeria and their impacts on nation building, national integration and socio economic development of Nigeria. It also examined the resurgences of internal boundary conflicts as a phenomenon which has bedevilled post-colonial Nigeria. The objective is to highlight the fact that internal boundaries and ethnic conflicts or relations in the country have essentially impacted negatively on the Nigerian nation building and developmental process. In fact, evidence shows that Nigeria’s experiment with federalism has compromised national unity, nation building, national integration, political stability and development. The work obtained data majorly from secondary source. It submits that boundaries and ethnicity can be utilized to promote harmony and peaceful co-existence. To this effect, the work recommends the policy of inclusion, equity and justice.

Key Words: Internal Boundaries, Ethnic Conflicts, Nigeria