Author(s):
Kareem Abdulrasaq, Kareem21r@gmail.com, 08130781449

Abstract: Nigeria has witnessed unprecedented problems associated with integrating the diverse interest groups and individuals since independence. While some believed on the secession other tends to remain indivisible and sustain the culture of “one Nigeria” despite the level of tribal, regional and religion crisis. This paper using both primary and secondary sources examines the problems and prospects of religion as an instrument for sustaining national integration in Nigeria in the 21st century. The paper observes that elites conspiracy, self interest, ignorance, regional and global politics, proliferation of religion organizations, poor priority on religion issues by the government, emergence of radical religion groups, top to bottom approach to addressing sensitive national integration issues among others have hindered the efficiency of the religion as a tool for promoting national integration in Nigeria. However, the paper also revealed that religion is vital tools for recreating sense of belonging, unity, understanding and respect necessary for effective relations among Nigerians irrespective of tribe, regional affinity and denomination. And that no effective national integration mechanism could effectively achieve its purpose without a sense of religion tolerance and proper attention on the use of religion in nation’s integration process. Hence, it is recommended that there is need to stop and avoid politicizing sensitive issues by religion leaders, instigate followers against their perceived enemy for personal interest, mend crisis on the social media, top to bottom approach in religion related issues and that religion institutions should not be seen as business-oriented centre.