Promoting National Integration for Sustainable Peace in Borno, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper explores the critical role of promoting national integration in achieving sustainable peace in diverse society like Nigeria and most especially Borno State which is ravaged by insurgency (Boko Haram) which almost swallowed the whole of Borno State and its neighboring states. It argues that national integration is the process of creating a sense of shared values, identity and purpose among citizens, regardless of their ethnic, cultural, religious and linguistic differences. The paper examines the challenges and opportunities to be considered by the Borno State government and Nigeria at large for promoting national integration in diverse societies and highlights the key strategies that can be employed to foster national unity and social cohesion. It also discusses the role of education, media and civil organizations in promoting national integration and emphasis the need for political will and leadership in a complex society like Nigeria (Borno) to drive the process of national integration. Finally, the paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts towards promoting national integration as a critical component of achieving sustainable peace in diverse societies.