The Role of the Christian Faith in Minimizing Corruption and Tribal Consciousness in Nigeria

Abstract

Integrity and truth, which are to savour and illuminate God's ways, which alone can preserve and guide humanity are the needs of the moment in Nigeria. Christianity goes far beyond private spirituality. It also involves a believer's public life, particularly through work, right relationships, and participation in society positively. Scholars have discussed integrity and truth in Nigeria without linking them to the void in the heart of an individual, which the gospel alone fills. This alone leads to the upliftment of moral and spiritual values that will give life to society. Therefore, there is still the need to investigate the concept of integrity and truth as it relates to minimizing corruption and tribalism in Nigerian society, especially for Christians both in the private and public domains. This paper intends to highlight the Gospel's expectation of the faith and testimony of Christians of integrity, truth, and selfless service to society and one another. Tribes, ethnic groups or the use of resources is not the problem but prejudice and greed. In this paper, a qualitative research methodology has been used, to explore the depth and breadth of the role of Christians in minimizing financial corruption and tribal consciousness or tribalism in Nigeria. Qualitative research, using a primary source like the Bible and secondary sources, aimed to obtain first-hand information about the perceived underlying factors causing financial corruption and tribal consciousness in both males and females in all works of life in Nigeria, practices, experiences of participants, their perception and how they are expected to function in the country. The prevalent rates of high-risk corruption and tribal consciousness are high in Nigeria-and the situation is unlikely to change in the near future unless Christians, who are high in population, choose to give God glory and practice their faith. Therefore, the paper makes recommendations for Christians to be mindful of the responsibility both to God and to the society-as the salt and light of the world.