Intercultural Communication: An Exigent Tool To Curb Intercultural Conflicts In Nigeria

Abstract

Communication is crucial to societal development and relationship building. In every developed country of the world, communication between the people is deemed a priority. However, effective communication in homogeneous states is easier compared to cultural diverse states. Nigeria is an African country famous for its fascinating cultural diversity, and has over 250 ethnic groups. However, this cultural diversity has led to unhealthy competition among the groups for superiority. The stereotypes created by Nigerians about each other remains a major impediment to effective intercultural communication. The absence of mechanisms to control ethnocentrism reveals the low level of the Nigerian government’s dedication towards nation building. Corruption and insecurity have fueled over the past couple of years due to increase in intercultural conflicts. Communication should be a substitute for violence in instances of rising tribal tensions. This study investigated the history of intercultural conflicts in Nigeria and its relationship with intercultural miscommunication. The research findings depict that Nigeria has a very weak foundation for inter-ethnic and inter-religious co-existence. Nigeria must rebuild its foundation to ensure peaceful co-existence among the ethnic groups and religions in the country, and to facilitate development and security.