An appraisal of the role of peace in rebuilding better Nigeria

Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation and one of its largest economies, is a country with immense potential. Rich in natural resources, cultural diversity, and human capital, Nigeria has the capacity to lead not just the continent, but to be a significant player on the global stage. However, the nation's journey through the 21st century has been marked by challenges that threaten to undermine its development, including ethnic and religious tensions, political instability, economic disparities, and widespread insecurity. In this context, the concepts of peace and unity emerge as not just ideals to be aspired to, but as essential building blocks for the nation's progress. Without peace, the social and economic fabric of the country remains vulnerable to the destructive forces of conflict, while the absence of unity further fractures a society already divided along ethnic, religious, and regional lines. This appraisal seeks to explore the critical role that peace and unity play in the reconstruction and development of Nigeria in the 21st century. It examines how fostering these values can help address the root causes of Nigeria's challenges and promote sustainable development.