Christian–muslim Conflicts and Interfaith Bridge‐building Efforts in Nigeria

Religious pluralism in Nigeria has been disrupted by religiously‐motivated conflict. Colonial polices towards Muslim and Christian communities institutionalized racial and religious differences—with far‐reaching consequences before and after independence. Religious fundamentalism among Christians and Muslims noticeably emerged in Nigeria during the 1970s. Between the 1980s and the mid‐2000s, roughly 48 cases of religious riots were reported. Most of Nigeria’s inter‐religious forums have responded to religious conflict only after it has escalated into violence. Governmental and non‐governmental inter‐religious peace initiatives should consolidate into a larger national forum, with branches extending to state and local levels to foster grassroots support.