Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aims to investigate the crucial role of the church in sustaining peace in Nigeria, with a focus on Jama'a Local Government Area in Kaduna State. Nigeria has experienced various forms of conflicts and violence, including religious and ethnic tensions, which have significantly impacted the stability and well-being of its citizens. Against this backdrop, the church, as a religious institution, plays a vital role in promoting peace and reconciliation within communities. The study employs a case study approach to explore how the church in Jama'a LGA has been actively involved in peacebuilding initiatives. Through interviews, observations, and analysis of relevant documents, the research examines the specific strategies and interventions implemented by the church to mitigate conflicts and foster peaceful coexistence among residents. Additionally, the study assesses the effectiveness of these peacebuilding efforts and identifies challenges faced by the church in its peacebuilding endeavors. Findings from the research reveal that the church in Jama'a LGA has played a significant role in sustaining peace by engaging in various activities such as conflict mediation, peace education, and community dialogues. The church has served as a moral compass, promoting values of forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity among individuals and groups in the community. Furthermore, the church has collaborated with other stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society organizations, to address root causes of conflicts and promote sustainable peace. Despite these positive contributions, the study also identifies challenges faced by the church in its peacebuilding efforts, including limited resources, interfaith tensions, and security concerns. The research underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to enhance the effectiveness of the church's role in sustaining peace in Nigeria. Recommendations are provided to strengthen the capacity of the church and improve coordination with other peacebuilding actors to address conflicts more effectively and build a lasting peace in Jama'a LGA and beyond. In conclusion, the study highlights the critical role of the church in promoting peace and reconciliation in Nigeria, particularly in conflict-affected areas like Jama'a LGA. By leveraging its moral authority, networks, and resources, the church can continue to be a key partner in sustaining peace and fostering social cohesion in diverse communities.

Project Overview

 INTRODUCTION

1.1  BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The Christian tradition has made significant contributions to world peace at a number of different levels (Albert, 2011). Among these are public statements by Church leaders, programs of action at local and international levels, organisations dedicated to bringing about peace, courses of study, commemorative days etc. In recent decades, Church leaders have frequently made statements in support of peace. In some cases these statements have been specific appeals for peace in particular circumstances, however, on other occasions they have also published more comprehensive statements on the need for peace and the means of achieving it. The teachings of Christianity which is guided by the dictates of the bible (word of God) has constantly encourage the members to ensure peace and harmony in the society.

Christian leaders have always publicly stand for societal peace and harmony and against violence. It is now widely accepted that violent conflict is the major hindrance to the development of the African continent and Nigeria in particular. It inflicts human sufferings through death, destruction of livelihoods, constant displacement and insecurity (Barash, 2000). Violent conflict disrupts the process of production, creates conditions for pillage of the country’s resources and diverts their application from development purposes to servicing war. Violent conflict is thus responsible for perpetuating misery and under development in the country-Nigeria and the continent at large (Adetula, 2006).

 

Peace is a universal phenomenon that everyone desires and wishes to enjoy endlessly. Traditions, cultures, religions and societies do have different prescriptions to attaining and enjoying peace. Whenever and wherever there is peace there tends to be development and longevity is enjoyed (Salawu, 2010). To this end, Christianity which is one of the predominant religions in the world today teaches peace and encourages all adherents to the faiths to pursue peace and live peacefully with one another. The above statement now seems to be questionable with the rise of intra, inter and ethno-religious conflicts in the world. While most Arab and some European countries are faced with intra-religious conflicts, an African country like Nigeria is faced with both intra and inter-religious conflicts. Nigeria, which is popularly known as Africa’s most populous black nation with a population of now about 170 million people, with more than 250 ethnic groups has Christianity and Islam as its predominant religions, though there is still in existence the African Traditional Religion (ATR).

Christianity as a word means followers of Christ or Christ like. Christians therefore are those who follow and act the teaching of Christ in all ways of life. One of the climaxes of Christianity or Christian virtue is peace. Christians are enjoined in the Bible to embrace and live peacefully with their neighbors’. The following scriptures confirm this: Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it (Psalm 34 vs 14).