Work

Historical Perspectives on the Accommodation of Diversity in Africa: A Study of Nigeria and Ethiopia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Many African countries are ethnically diverse. The dangerous conflicts arising from the complex ethnocultural character of these countries have made Africa the most politically unstable region in the world. Separatist ethnic conflicts and other manifestations of primordial contestation have accentuated the need for effective ethnic accommodation strategies in the context of Africa. This article historicises ethnic accommodation and nation-building strategies in Ethiopia and Nigeria, focusing principally on the successes and encumbrances. Relying on the historical approach, this article brings back to the front burner of academic discussion the challenge of ethnic diversity and the problems associated with the effective implementation of nation-building strategies in Africa. The article recommends that political leadership in Africa must prioritise efforts aimed at building the functional capacity of the state to translate ethnic accommodation strategies into effective tools for promoting unity in diversity.

Source: Insight on Africa

DOI: 10.1177/09750878251342773

Authors: Jan Záhořík, Aderemi Opeyemi Ade-Ibijola, Segun Oshewolo

Institutions: University of West Bohemia in Pilsen, Afe Babalola University, Federal University Lokoja

Language: English

Topic: African Studies and Ethnography

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650