Religious Leaders as Agents of Peace and Security for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper explores the possibility of drawing on religious values and ethos through our religious leaders in solving societal problems militating against peace and security for sustainable development in the country. The paper looks at the security and peace which religion proffers by inculcation of moral. Religion regulates the conduct and behaviour of people in the society and preaches good virtues needed in the society. The researcher undertakes historical and critical interpretation of the phenomenon which have militated against meaningful peace and security of the nation. It discovers among other things that bribery and corruption, poor leadership, moral decadence, insecurity, religious crisis or insurgence among others contribute to the low pace of security and peace in the nation. It concludes by recommending that all religious leaders/groups should draw on the theosophical perspectives of religion in the country to ensure adequate peace and security for peaceful co-existence in order for the nation to actualize her dreams of sustainable development.

Keywords: Religion, Peace, Security, Leaders, Sustainable Development