Religion and Conflict Resolution

In African States, which are multi-ethnic, with multiple religions and vast natural resources, social conflicts have reigned for decades. Religion and ethnicity are intricately interwoven in African conflicts. This book illustrates that in the past, religion has been used as a uniting factor. Therefore, what are the root causes of conflicts in these African States? In answering this question, we use Nigeria as a case study; we examine the Sharia-law, the Niger Delta, and the Boko-Haram conflicts amongst others. We argue that religion, ethnicity, natural resources, and culture are factors in Nigerian conflicts, but that the frustration of basic human needs (BHNs) is actually what is at the root of its conflicts. We examine Fr. Francis Libermann's religious peacebuilding "Project for the Blacks" (1846) whose virtue of humility and love was based on the satisfaction of BHNs and conclude that a similar project is likely to bring sustainable peace in Nigeria and elsewhere. This book is intended for students and practitioners of conflict resolution and anyone interested in how religion can help resolve conflict in the African States.