Why Nigeria Has Faced Persistent Conflict Since 1960

Root Causes

1. Ethnic Diversity: 250+ groups with distinct languages/cultures; competition for power/resources fuels tension.
2. Political Instability: Military coups, flawed elections, corruption undermine trust in institutions.
3. Economic Inequality: Oil wealth concentrated; widespread poverty and marginalization breed grievance.
4. Religious Divides: Muslim north vs. Christian south; exploited by politicians, leading to sectarian violence.
5. Resource Competition: Land, oil, minerals; unequal control sparks communal clashes.
6. Youth Unemployment: High joblessness drives crime, radicalization, and unrest.
7. Weak Institutions: Ineffective judiciary, police, and governance fail to deliver justice.
8. External Influences: Arms flows, foreign backing of proxies, regional spillover.

Path Forward

Sustainable peace requires inclusive governance, equitable development, justice reform, and strengthened institutions.