Religiosity and national development in Nigeria: critical points of disconnection between faith and praxis

Abstract

This paper discusses the critical disconnections between the displays of religiosity and national development in Nigeria. It is obvious in the country that the major religious groups- Christianity, Islam, and African Traditional Religion (ATR), give attention and unalloyed commitments to various forms and shades of religious activities and related practices. The study was with the view of investigating whether religiosity has enhanced national development in terms of curbing corruption, fostering socio-economic growth and improving the well-being of Nigerians. The writer used books and journal articles relevant to the study. The Internet was also helpful in gathering information. The discussions were augmented by the personal observations of acts of religiosity in Nigeria. The findings of the study revealed eight major dimensions through which the adherents of these religions in Nigeria display religiosity, namely- Pilgrimages, Diverse Prayer sessions, Giving, Regular Worship attendance, Display of Piety & Devotion, Observance of Sacred days/Festivals, Fasting and Media productions. However, these displays of religiosity have not translated into significant nation-building and socio-economic development in Nigeria. The paper concludes by recommending to all religious adherents in Nigeria the need to return to practicing the ethical and moral codes contained in their sacred texts in order to foster a true, just and equitable society.