OHAZURUME - Unizik Journal of Culture and Civilization

Nigeria is facing serious underdevelopment. This can be seen in her economic, social and educational deterioration. This paper seeks to find out the reasons for the deterioration and the role religion can play to improve the development of Nigeria. Observation and descriptive method was used in this study. It was discovered that lack of good governance, corruption and religious intolerance contributed to underdevelopment in Nigeria. This study argues that religion transforms individuals who build the nation. It was also discovered that religious groups have played outstanding roles in national growth. This was achieved through the provision of schools, hospitals, inculcating morals through teaching in religious and political assemblies for national growth. The article recommends strong relationship between religious bodies and government. It recommends that when individuals understand and practice religious transformational values, ethics, forgiveness, and doctrines, most societal ills would be eradicated. Thus, religion is capable of not only ensuring but building sustainable and formidable nationhood.

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