Forgiveness in the course for a better Nigeria – Our Security, Our Peace By Prof. O.E Bassey

Forgiveness is a powerful force in social relationships, and its importance becomes even more instructive within the context of Nigeria’s socio-political and religious system. As a nation with a vast cultural diversity, boasting over 250 ethnic groups and a mosaic of religious beliefs and practices, this diversity has often been a source of tension and conflict, leading to deep wounds along ethnic, religious, and political lines.

With such a narrative of the reality of the country, forgiveness becomes not just a

personal act but an important tool for the national unity and peace we so much crave.

The country’s history is marked by various conflicts, from the civil war of the late 1960s to more recent clashes between communities, often fueled by ethnic rivalries, political struggles, and religious differences. These conflicts have left scars that run deep across generations. Grievances over political marginalization, historical wrongs, and economic disparities have created environments of mistrust, resentment, and at times, outright hostility. In many instances, these wounds have been difficult to heal because the collective memory of pain is continuously passed down, leading to cycles of violence and retribution.

Religiously, Nigeria is largely divided between Islam and Christianity, with both religions playing influential roles in the country’s social and political life. While many Nigerians embrace peaceful coexistence, tensions between communities based on religious differences have, at times, snowballed into violence. These conflicts carry heavy emotional and spiritual weight, as they are deeply intertwined with people’s identities. Yet, you find both Christianity and Islam teach the principles of forgiveness, love, and peace. Despite this, the challenge remains in translating these teachings into practice, especially in a society where the wounds of past and present conflicts fester.

In this setting, forgiveness becomes supreme for national healing. It is the bridge that can connect Nigeria’s fractured groups, making room for reconciliation and peace. Forgiveness does not mean erasing history or ignoring the legitimate grievances of marginalized or oppressed communities. It means recognizing the pain but choosing to break the loop of revenge. By forgiving, individuals and communities can let go of the bitterness and anger that fuel division, and instead, open themselves up to dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.

On a political level, forgiveness could pave the way for more inclusive governance and a focus on policies that promote equity and justice, rather than perpetuating regional, ethnic, or religious favoritism. When leaders model forgiveness and promote reconciliation, they create a climate that encourages unity and fosters national development. Nigeria’s political landscape, mostly characterized by competition and rivalry, would benefit immensely from a culture of forgiveness, where differences are

acknowledged but not allowed to breed enmity.

Forgiveness is also vital in religious settings. The teachings of both Christianity and Islam on peace, love, and brotherhood must transcend sermons and personal beliefs to manifest in everyday actions and policies. Religious leaders, who hold massive influence in Nigeria, can play a central role in advocating for forgiveness, preaching

that holding onto grudges or fostering hatred contradicts the core teachings of both faiths. When Nigerians begin to see forgiveness as a spiritual duty, just maybe it can lead to greater tolerance and understanding between religious groups.

Then, on a personal level, which is the starter for everyone, forgiveness brings

emotional freedom. For individuals and families who have suffered loss, trauma, or pain due to ethnic or religious violence, forgiving those who have caused harm is the first and most important step toward healing. Now this does not negate the need for justice or accountability, but it allows the victim to move beyond the pain. By so doing, the cycle of hatred is scrapped, and the space for peace begins to grow.