HIS 331

TERM PAPER

QUESTION: EXPLORE THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

AND GLOBALIZATION IN SHAPING
CONTEMPORARY INTER-GROUP RELATIONS IN
NIGERIA. WHAT INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES CAN BE
EMPLOYED TO FOSTER PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE
IN THIS CONTEXT?

BY
GROUP 16
TABLE OF CONTENT

1
 Introduction- OLUFOWOTO OREOLUWA

 The Impact of Social Media on Inter-Group Relations- OKOROSOBO AUDREY AND

OWOYOMI TUNMISE
● Amplification of Voices and Ideas
○ Spread of misinformation and hate speech
○ Mobilization of communities
● Virtual Communities and Identity Formation
○ Online echo chambers and polarization
○ Cyberbullying and harassment

 The Role of Globalization in Inter-Group Relations- OGIDAN DAVID AND SANNI

SEMILORE
● Economic Integration and Migration
○ Increased competition and resource scarcity
○ Cultural exchange and hybridization
● Political and Cultural Exchange
○ Global norms and human rights discourse
○ Diffusion of ideologies and extremism

 Challenges to Peaceful Coexistence- ORIYOMI ABIGEAL

● Ethno-religious Conflicts
○ Historical grievances and political manipulation
○ Resource competition and land disputes
● Social Media as a Catalyst for Conflict
○ Spread of hate speech and propaganda
○ Incitement to violence and mobilization of extremist groups

 Innovative Strategies for Peaceful Coexistence- ALO FOLU AND OKEKE CHINEDU
● Digital Literacy And Media Education
○ Critical thinking and fact-checking skills
○ Responsible digital citizenship
● Interfaith Dialogue and Community Building
○ Fostering understanding and empathy
○ Collaborative problem-solving and conflict resolution
● Government Policies and Regulations
○ Hate speech laws and online censorship
○ Investment in social infrastructure and development

 Conclusion- OLAWADE OLUWASEMILORE

 Compilation, Referencing and Editing- OLUFOWOTO OREOLUWA AND OLAWADE

SEMILORE

2
 GROUP MEMBERS
 OWOYOMI TUMISE MARY- RUN/HIS/22/12390

 OGIDAN DAVID AKINBAYO- RUN/HIS/22/12350

 OKOROSOBO AUDREY- RUN/HIS/22/12363

 ORIYOMI ABIGEAL FIYINFOLUWA- RUN/HIS/22/12383

 OKEKE CHINEDU- RUN/HIS/22/12360

 ALO FOLU INCOMPARABLE- RUN/HIS/22/14780

 SANNI SEMILORE- RUN/HIS/22/12400

 OLAWADE OLUWASEMILORE GLORIOUS- RUN/HIS/22/12370

(ASST. GROUP LEADER)

 OLUFOWOTO OREOLUWA ADEDEJI- RUN/HIS/22/12373

(GROUP LEADER)

3
INTRODUCTION
In today’s world the role and impact of social media and globalization is undeniable.
In every sphere of life from education, to trade, international relations, domestic
politics, globalization and the use of social media has invaded and created a new
norm. With that being said, inter-group relation is not exempted. Before the era of
globalization and social media, inter-ethnic relation was rather simply and primitive.
Globalization and social media has immensely impacted inter-group relation in
Nigeria, from the way different group relate with each-other, whether in a courteous
manner or in terms of rivalries. These impacts can be viewed and analyzed from a
positive and negative perspective. This paper aims to enlighten on both sides of the
coin and also introduce innovative strategies with the context of globalization and
social media which can help in fostering peace co-existence and relations among
different Nigerian ethnic groups.

INTER-GROUP RELATION BEFORE GLOBALIZATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA

It will be providentially wrong to state that before globalization, inter-group relations
in the region now known as Nigeria was non-existent. Although the region was
divided into several autonomous states, they regularly interacted through trade,
commerce, and even some cases wars. Economic, cultural or even political difference
usually prompted wars such as the Egba-Egbado wars or even the Yoruba civil-wars.
After the arrival of the colonialist, this interaction was slightly distorted as
autonomous states were now amalgamated together under a central authority,
changing the dynamics of their interactions. One major interaction which occurred
before the independence of Nigeria was the unanimous effort to fight against colonial
rule. Although these interactions were not always positive as these groups forced
under one umbrella constantly in head-locks. Certain groups tagged another as
receiving unique treatment from the colonial rulers. The animosity between both
groups would eventually led to a head-lock in post-colonial Nigeria.

THE ROLE OF GLOBALIZATION IN INTER-GROUP RELATION

Post World War II and early years of the 20th century, globalization as viewed today
began to spread within Europe and consequently the rest of the world. Globalization
and the emergence of social media as suggested by inventors change the nature and

1
medium of trade, commerce, communication, and even relations, locally and
internationally. With this being said, the inter-group relation in the newly-created
Nigeria was also greatly impacted, changing its scale and the nature by which it
originally followed. In other to fully under the impact of these concepts in the inter-
group relations context within Nigeria, its role in inter-group relation must be
analyzed.
one major role the introduction of globalization and by effect social media had on the
inter-group relation within Nigeria is the Increased competition and resource
Scarcity. Due to Globalization, there is greater competition present between
businesses and market places, whereby each industries wants to get favourable
conditions and be on top in the business functions. Globalization causes competition
through various ways such as increased access to foreign markets as it opens markets
all over the world for companies and industries, making competition global. There is
also increased pressure to innovate; several companies would always strive to be
ahead of their global competitors and hence, having to invest in innovation. Moving
to Resource Scarcity, as a result of the increased competition, there would be scarcity
of resources which is caused by the increase in demand as a result f increased
competition because various companies are trying to level up their game,
“industrialization is therefore the cause of resource scarcity. Other reasons would
include; increased access to foreign markets as earlier highlighted. Diversification of
resources is also a way by which Globalization leads to increased competition and
resource scarcity as globalization gives organizations access to raw materials and
resources which can strengthen their institutions.1

In addition to this, the concept as also had a role in Cultural Exchange and
hybridization. Globalization has increases Intercultural exchange and hybridization
through increased geographical mobility of people and through different media like
television, internet, foreign brands etc. Globalization also causes the exchange of
cultural values between different ethnic-groups through the convergence of traditions.
Globalization causes and allows for interaction between two or more cultures

1
Homework.study.com, “How Does Globalization lead to Greater Competition in the market place?.
https://homework.study.com/explanation/how-does-globalization-lead-to-greater-competition-in-the-market-
place.html#:~:text=Globalization%20leads%20to%20greater%20competition,hence%20competition%20also%20becomes
%20global. Accessed November 2, 2024.

2
worldwide because different cultures must interact with each other in order for
Globalization among groups to be successful.2
Generally, the Hybridization of cultures or simply Hybridization has been an
ongoing process from past till the present ultimately, but it has further increased with
Globalization. To explain Hybridization of culture in simple terms, it could be seen as
processes and activities that involves the mixing and blending of local cultures with
cultures foreign to one’s indigenous culture through economic generating efforts and
making changes to fit cultural norms of adopted destination.3

Globalization has also played and still continues to play a role in political and
cultural exchange. Globalization causes political exchange in several ways. it
enhances communication allowing groups and even countries to share ideas, policies,
and practices more easily. This leads to increased diplomatic relations, where ethnic-
groups cooperate on issues like trade, security, and environmental issues.
Globalization also promotes the spread of democratic idea’s and governance
practices. In the process of interaction between countries ,they follow similar political
structures and policies, influenced by successful models from other nations. This
exchange can lead to the promotion of human rights and democratic reforms in
various regions.
Economic interdependence furthers political dialogue. As countries become more
economically linked, they are encouraged to engage in discussions and negotiations to
resolve conflicts and promote stability. This creates a platform for political exchange
that can lead to more cooperative international relations.4

Furthermore, globalization has also played an eminent role in shaping norms and
human right discourse. Cultural norms are shared expectations or standards of
2
Chiu, Chi Yue, Anand Benegal, and Peter Hays Gries. "Globalization and Intercultural Relations." Oxford Research
Encyclopedia of Psychology. 20 Apr. 2022; Accessed 2 Nov. 2024.
https://oxfordre.com/psychology/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780190236557.001.0001/acrefore-9780190236557-e-573.

3
"Understanding Cultural Hybridization and Globalization through the Benefits and Risks on Economic Growth," IGI Global,
Accessed November 2, 2024
https://www.igi-global.com/chapter/understanding-cultural-hybridization-and-globalization-through-the-benefits-and-risks-on-
economic-growth/255444#:~:text=Cultural%20hybridization%20and%20globalization%20could,cultural%20norms%20of
%20adopted%20destination.
4

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Accessed on 2024.09.03.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042814013111?ref=pdf_download&fr=RR-
2&rr=8dcd480bdf2777b8#bbib0005.

3
behavior that are accepted by states, intergovernmental organizations, actors and in
the context of this paper, ethnic groups. They are often created in response to a crisis
or based on existing norms. organizations, associations, political governments and
advocacy coalitions are usually the ones that create, codify, and validate norms.
Globalization brought about the rapid expansion of human rights. They exceeded
national boundaries and governmental frameworks, expanding their impact on a
global scale. They have emerged as a major topic of discussion in practically every
society, addressing the issues of institutions, communities, and both powerful and
marginalized people. Maintaining each person's intrinsic value and regard is essential
to advancing an organized society, because any violation of this dignity can have
serious consequences for both the person and the group. Because of their humanity,
all people have inherent rights, and it is crucial that these rights be upheld.5

To conclude on the roles of globalization, its role in diffusion of ideologies and

extremism cannot be ignored. Globalization has led to the diffusion of ideologies
through a number of factors, including Cultural diffusion (which is entails the process
by which ideas, values, and meanings are spread and adopted as part of a new
innovation). Tourists and business travelers can spread their ideas and beliefs to other
cultures. Also, Social media and other means of communication allow people to share
their ideas and opinions with a wide range audience.6

THE IMPACTS OF GLOBALIZATION AND ITS AFTERMATH; SOCIAL

MEDIA ON INTERGROUP RELATIONS
After vehemently analyzing the roles globalization has placed in terms of inter-group
relations, it has become evident that these roles have and will have implications or
rather impacts on the concepts of relations of groups within the Nigerian stratosphere.
To begin with, one major implication the role of globalization and use of social media
has created is the AMPLIFICATION OF VOICES AND IDEAS.

One way the amplification of voices and ideas as been witnessed is the Spread of
5
Diamond, A. A globalization diversity ideology. SN Soc Sci 4, 35 (2024).
Accessed 2024.09.03. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43545-024-00847-3#:~:text=Bernardo%20et
%20al.-,2013).,studies%20compare%20the%20groups%20directly.

6
Skoczylis, Joshua, and Matthew Leavesley. "Chapter 21: The globalization of extremism: an odd paradox". In Research
Handbook on the Sociology of Globalization, (Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing, 2023) accessed Nov 3, 2024.

4
Misinformation and Hate Speech. A significant challenge that social media poses
for inter-group relations is its ability to promote misinformation and hate speech.
Social media platforms allow content to spread faster, without any verification which
leads to the rapid release of inaccurate or harmful information. In many cases, people
are exposed to sensationalized news, conspiracy theories, or propaganda, which often
paints other groups in a negative light.7 These messages can heighten existing issues,
promoting distrust and animosity between different groups. Hate speech, is given a
larger platform on social media, where inflammatory rhetoric can attract attention and
engagement. Algorithm-driven content recommendations can create echo chambers,
in which users are more likely to see posts that align with their beliefs, increasing
divisions. This echo effect can promote divisive rhetoric, ultimately leading to
increased tension, and in some cases, real-world violence against targeted groups.8

Another implication of the amplification of voices and ideas is the Mobilization of

Communities. On the other hand, social media has proven to be a powerful tool for
the mobilization of communities, promoting shared purpose among groups with
common interests. For isolated communities, social media provides a space to create
awareness, share experiences, and organize movements that encourages change. This
has been very crucial for groups whose voices have been historically suppressed or
ignored in mainstream media. Through social media, communities can come together
to initiate petitions, organize protests, or raise funds for causes they care about,
amplifying their influence in ways that were previously unachievable. Social media
campaigns can also help bridge gaps between groups by creating coalitions, as people
from different backgrounds rally around shared values, such as environmental
sustainability or human rights. While mobilization can sometimes lead to inter-group
friction when opposing viewpoints clash, the overall effect often brings
underrepresented voices to the forefront, promoting dialogue and fostering mutual
understanding.9

Another major impact of the effect or role of globalization and the use of social media
7
Pew Research Center. The Future of Free Speech, Trolls, Anonymity and Fake News Online. Washington, D.C.: Pew Research
Center, 2017.
8

Global Network Initiative. Social Media and Conflict. Washington, D.C.: Global Network Initiative, 2020.

9
Sunstein, Cass R. #Republic: Divided Democracy in the Age of Social Media. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 2018.

5
on inter-group relations is the creation of VIRTUAL COMMUNITIES AND
IDENTITY FORMATION. a major way this impact has been expressed is the existence of
Online Echo Chambers and Polarization. Online echo chambers and polarization
have become an essential business within online communities, particularly when
talking about their impact on identity formation. Echo chambers happen when people
involve themselves with information, beliefs, and points of view that regulate with
their own, adequately clarifying out another point of view. In online communities,
these chambers are frequently buttressed by social media procedure built to show
users content they are possible to participate with typically content that reproduce
with their existing beliefs.
The polarization effect in virtual communities increases these possibilities, as
individuals increasingly adopt an “us versus them” mentality. Polarization happened
when groups with different points of view move further excepting their own beliefs,
often seeing each other as opponents. Within online communities, polarization can
escalate due to factors like anonymity, which strengthens people to express views
they might otherwise moderate in face-to-face interactions. However, as people’s
social media feeds become filled with polarized content, they happen to incline
toward groups that authenticate their choices, bracing a sense of in-group loyalty and
out-group mistrust.10

A direct implication of the virtual communities and identity formation is Cyberbully

and Harassment. Cyberbully and harassment are prevalent problems in online
communities, crucially affecting both individual and group identity formation. In
virtual spaces, cyberbully typically takes the form of persistent aggressive behaviors
as insults or threats intended at intimidating a specific person. 11 The obscurity and
physical distance of the internet can however promote such behaviors, allowing
individuals to participate in bullying without facing immediate social consequences.
As a result, individuals targeted by cyberbully may go through emotional and

10
Global Network Initiative. Social Media and Conflict. Washington, D.C.: Global Network Initiative, 2020.

11
Coleman, Gabriella and Alex Golub. "Hacker Practice: Moral Orders in Online Spaces." Journal of Cultural Economy 6, no. 3
(2013): 299–315.

6
psychological distress, often questioning their own self-worth and sanity.12

CHALLENGES TO PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE

The impacts of globalization and the us of social media has had and continues to have,
definitely pose challenges to the coexistence of different groups with the Nigerian
space. This phase of this paper, aims to proper analyse the challenges that these
concept has had on the Nigerian space.
To begin with, the impacts of globalization and the use of social media poses a great
risk in intensifying already existing Ethno- religious conflict. This has to do with
tension and violence between different ethnic groups with different religious
identities. There are about 374 ethnic groups in Nigeria. The major ethnic groups are
the Hausa-Fulani in the north, Yoruba in the southwest and Igbo in the southeast all
other ethnic group falls under minority group with different level of political status.
The Hausa and other communities residing in the Northern Nigeria are mainly
Muslims while the Igbo communities are predominately Christians. The Yoruba
speaking communities are equally Christians and Muslims. The middle belt or North
central is a mixture of Muslim and Christian population. Religion play a major part in
ethnic groups e.g Boko haram is an Islamist group against Westernization and
Christianity and also the Hausa-Fulani who are predominately Muslims had partake in
conflicts with the Igbo since Biafra war and it had an ongoing tension between the
two ethnic groups.13

Another evident risk, globalization poses to coexistence is re-birthing of Historical

grievances and political manipulation. Historical grievances is also a challenge to
peaceful coexistence. Historical grievances is as a result of past trauma, injustice or
conflicts that occurred in the past which has a long lasting tension that continues to
affect communities or ethnics relations. Colonialism is a past event but it legacy has
shaped the relationship of the ethnic groups. Through the use of divide and rule
tactics, the British or colonist drew boundaries that merged separate ethnic groups
into one ethic groups into one entity ignoring it existing cultural and historical
12
Duggan, Maeve. “Online Harassment 2017.” Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech, July 11, 2017.

13
Ethno-religious and conflict in Northern Nigeria, Accessed 2nd November 2024. https://www.centri.be/Ethno-religious-
identity-and?lang=fr.

7
division. The use of divide and rule promoted divisions between ethnic groups
emphasizing differences and creating tension. Divide and rule tactics fueled the
tension fueled the tensions between Hausa-Fulani and Igbo, exploiting the historical
rivalries. The tactics also led to conflicts between the Yoruba and Igbo. Colonialism
also led to the exploitation of religious differences i.e Political manipulation
challenge the Peaceful coexistence of ethnic groups in Nigeria. Government makes
use of the broken relationship between these ethnics groups and turn them against
each other to gather votes.14
Furthermore, there is also a the possibility of igniting conflict over Resources and
competition of land dispute. Resources such as oil and gas which is mainly found
areas in Niger Delta region is Nigeria primary source of revenue. Furthermore, there
is the competition for fertile land, water resources and pastoral routes. Mineral
resources such as such as gold, iron, coal, are also found in different region can bring
forth competition among various ethnic groups. Land dispute can be seen among
Fulani herds men and farmers over pastoral routes.

To round up, globalization also creates the risk of using Social media as a catalyst
for conflicts. Social media can also be an avenue to damage relationships between
various ethnic groups. It can be use as a means to spread false information, hateful
speech which can lead to misunderstanding among ethnic groups. Social media can
also serve as propaganda, it can be use to influence peoples thought, feelings, or
action against political party or against ethnic groups. The spread of hateful speech
and information about ethic groups can increase ethnic tension and also religious
tension, violent and also bloodshed etc. During ENDSARS which happened in 2020,
social media been used to spread false information about the event .15

INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES FOR PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE

In efforts to combat challenges the impacts of globalization and use of social media
pose for inter-group relation in Nigeria, certain innovative strategies must be enacted,

14
“Influence of ethnicity and religion in Nigerian election and imperative of media.”Assessed 3rd November 2024.
https://medcraveonline.com/SIJ/influence-of-ethnicity-and-religion-in-Nigeria-elections-and_the_imperative-of-media-
intervention.html.

15
Journal of conflict Resolution's “social media and conflict issue.” Accessed 3rd November 2024.

8
in hopes of saving the nation of Nigeria from an apocalypse emanating from the
aftermath pf the effects of the impacts of the concepts.
One of these strategies is the foremost training in digital literacy and media
education. Digital literacy refers to the act of effectively using digital technologies
such as smartphones, computers to create awareness and information while media
education refers to the act of focusing on developing critical thinking skills that helps
in analyzing and creating media messages.
In order to use digital literacy and media education in fostering peaceful co -
existence, it is important that the people are enlightened on the relevance of peaceful
co -existence because with the help of digital literacy and media education, Nigerians
may improve on many peace education skills, knowledge and attitudes including
skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, assertiveness, reading, self -control,
sensitivity and cooperation; knowledge content such as self -awareness, peace and
conflict issues, human rights, justice and power, gender issues and social justice;
appropriate attitudes dispositions regarding self -respect, honesty, obedience, open –
mindedness, gender equity, tolerance and adaption to change.16 Digital literacy and
Media education can also become effective in fostering peaceful coexistence by
shaping the mindsets of youths and adults that belong to diverse groups, religion,
culture and tribes on issues of peace, especially conflict management, conflict
transformation, peacemaking and negotiation skills and this can be fully effective by
bringing different digital technologies into peace and conflict studies, teaching and
learning.17

Another strategy is the push for interfaith dialogue and community building. The
world is now a cosmopolitan society with different cultures, tribes, religion and
people virtually connected through the internet. Cosmopolitanism emphasizes an
individual’s willingness to engage with people of different cultures, tribes, and
religion while upholding universal standards of human rights, social media platforms
to facilitate collaboration, interaction and sharing of content among others. With the
help of churches, mosques and other religious institutions, there would be increase in

16
Alimba, C.N (2010). “Peace Education: An untapped pathway to managing ethnic – religious conflicts in Nigeria” I. O Albert
and O.N Olarinde (Eds), Trends in managing conflicts Ibadan: John Archers Publishers Ltd.

17
James O.O “Towards utilizing new digital media technologies for the promotion of peace education in Nigeria”. African
Journal of Teacher Education (AJOTE). Vol. 2, No. 1 (2010).

9
positive social interactions and can be useful in embarking on public peace campaigns
that can help in promoting interfaith dialogue and community building.18

Furthermore, in hopes of co-tailing the challenges of globalization, there must be the

conception of government policies and regulations. The government can also play a
role in fostering peaceful co -existence by enacting certain policies and regulations.
These policies and regulations can help in maintaining certain practical steps that can
help in fostering peaceful co -existence these steps include; Establishing a mechanism
to monitor and track hate speech in media, refrain from posting or promoting
disinformation or fake news that fuel hate speech on social media, protect sources of
information, urge civil society organizations and social figures and influencers to
address hate speech, urge the competent local and international organizations to
provide psychological support to victims of hate speech, raise awareness on the
importance of enacting legislation on negative consequences of hate speech in social
media platforms, respect human values and principles in all social media content,
uphold professional standards especially; objectivity, accuracy, credibility and
impartiality.19
Government agencies should also ensure that peaceful co -existence is actualized
because peace is a process that has to be developed. Rather than being part of the
problem, governments should reinvigorate the teaching and learning of peace
education by providing an enabling environment and resources through various
ministries. To make this achievable, there is a need for collaboration between the
ministries of education, information, communications and defense with police
departments, science and technology institutions, youth and social development
organizations as well as with culture and tourism government and business
representatives.20

18
Adeshina I. Omotayo “Peace – building and social media in a cosmopolitan society” Wukari International Studies Journal,
Vol. 6, No. 2,2022.

19
David Lanz, Ahmed E., Enrico F, Camino K. “Social Media in Peace Mediation; a practical frame work.” DPPA media
support unit and Swiss peace, June 2021.

20
James O.O “Towards utilizing new digital media technologies for the promotion of peace education in Nigeria”. African
Journal of Teacher Education (AJOTE). Vol. 2, No. 1 (2010).

10
Another innovative strategy that can be used to foster peaceful co -existence among
inter group relations is the use of mediators and their teams in the media world
and through globalization. Through the use of social media mis -information may
occur and can lead to strife or conflict between inter groups. Mediators could serve as
great tools for peaceful co -existence by helping curbing mis information through the
following ways; Removal of social media posts that directly or indirectly incite
violence, Set up systems to verify the accuracy of information relayed through social
media or other channels.21 In complex cases, consider partnering with private
companies specializing in these specific areas, as well as with credible local news
sources or institutions, Partner with specialized NGOs to monitor social media in
order to have better information in a position to detect cases of mis and dis
information early and potentially act to counter or respond to such information,
Partner with local and national organizations that can help to identify and flag harmful
content and encourage them to report or take other types of action against it, and
informing social media platforms about problematic content, using their terms of
service as a guide, identify whether the social media platforms have a country or
regional representative and establish contact with this representative and also
participate in a relevant trusted partners network to speed up time response.22

The investment in social infrastructure and development is another strategy which

can be enforced in solving challenges which rise from the impact of globalization on
inter-group relations in Nigeria. Investment in social infrastructure and development
is crucial for fostering peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, as it addresses the root causes
of conflict and promotes unity among diverse communities. One of the primary areas
of focus is education. The establishment of mixed schools that cater to students from
various ethnic and religious backgrounds plays a significant role in bridging societal
divides. Initiatives like the Universal Basic Education (UBE) aim to provide free and
compulsory education for all children, ensuring that every child, regardless of their
background, has access to quality learning. This inclusive approach not only enhances

21
David Lanz, Ahmed E., Enrico F, Camino K. “Social Media in Peace Mediation; a practical frame work.” DPPA media
support unit and Swiss peace, June 2021.
22

Jenny, Joëlle, Rosi Greenberg, Vincent Lowney and Guy Banim, Peacemaking and New Technologies: Dilemmas & Options for
Mediators, Mediation Practice Series report, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, December 2018.

11
educational outcomes but also cultivates an appreciation for diversity among young
people, fostering a more tolerant and harmonious society.
Healthcare is another vital component of social infrastructure that can contribute to
peaceful coexistence. The Nigerian government has implemented initiatives such as
the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to improve healthcare access,
particularly for citizens in rural areas. By ensuring that essential health services are
available to all, health disparities can be minimized, leading to a healthier population.
Community health programs that focus on maternal and child health services
exemplify this effort, as they enhance overall community well-being. A healthier
population is less prone to conflict, as it reduces the grievances that often arise from
inadequate healthcare access.
Economic opportunities also play a significant role in promoting peace. Programs like
the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) are designed to create jobs and
alleviate poverty, which are critical factors in reducing unrest. By providing
vocational training and support for small businesses, these initiatives empower
individuals economically. For instance, the N-Power program has successfully trained
thousands of young Nigerians in various skills, enabling them to secure employment
or start their own enterprises. This economic empowerment not only reduces poverty
but also diminishes the likelihood of conflict arising from economic disparities.23

Community engagement is essential for fostering trust and collaboration among

different groups. Projects such as Community Development Associations (CDAs)
encourage local participation in decision-making processes related to social
infrastructure projects. When communities are actively involved in planning and
implementing initiatives, such as building schools or health clinics, it strengthens
relationships among diverse ethnic groups. For example, community-led efforts to
construct roads have improved transportation and facilitated better interactions among
various communities, thereby promoting social cohesion.24

23
Kolawole samson olowo et al,Psychological strategies for achieving peaceful co-existence in a multi-cultural and multi-
religious society for sustainable national development,(Wudil), 2017.

24
Christian Emeka Chukwu,National Integration and Peaceful Co-Existence in Nigeria: The Role of Inter-Ethnic/Inter-Religious
Marriages, vol 13

12
The establishment of conflict resolution mechanisms is vital for maintaining peace.
Peace committees, such as the Peace and Security Committee in Plateau State,
provide platforms for dialogue among conflicting parties. These committees often
include community leaders trained in conflict management, enabling them to address
grievances before they escalate into violence. In regions affected by communal
clashes, these committees have successfully mediated disputes over land and
resources, fostering peaceful resolutions and preventing further conflict.25

Another strategy is the upholding the principle of true federalism. The principle of
true federalism should be upheld and sincerely practiced against the so called federal
system presently being practiced. True federalism will ensure a peaceful and cordial
relationship between inter groups which can help to foster true federalism.
Lastly, another efficient strategy is the practice of the principle of cultural
pluralism. The principle of cultural pluralism should not only be seen to be preached
but should be the order of practice in the country. It should not only be enshrined in
the constitution but should be a guiding document of practice for all.26

CONCLUSION
The intricate relationship between social media, globalization, and inter-group
relations in Nigeria presents both significant challenges and opportunities for
fostering peaceful coexistence. Through this analysis, it has become evident that
while globalization and social media have transformed the landscape of inter-group
interactions, creating new avenues for communication and cultural exchange, they
have also intensified existing tensions and created new forms of conflict. However,
the challenges posed by these modern phenomena have also sparked innovative
solutions. The implementation of digital literacy programs, interfaith dialogue
initiatives, and community building efforts demonstrate Nigeria's adaptability in
addressing contemporary challenges to peaceful coexistence. As Nigeria continues to
navigate these challenges, the emphasis must remain on promoting understanding,

25
Okoli. F.C. et al,Peaceful Co-Existence: A Tool for Sustainable Development Along the Boundary Corridor of Nigeria, vol.5,
December,2014.

26
Ofili F.I “Inter group relations in Nigeria; The dynamics and complexities” International Journal of Development and
Management Review (INJODEMAR). Vol.11, June 2016.

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modern tools and strategies to build bridges rather than barriers between communities.

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