Traditional, Religious Leaders Urge National Unity in Nigeria

Traditional and religious institutions in Nigeria convened in Abuja to renew calls for national unity, as highlighted during the unveiling of the African Poll Institute's 2026 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey report. Professor Bell Ihua, Executive Director of the African Poll Institute, announced that Nigeria's social cohesion index has risen to 48.8%, the highest since the survey began.

This marks a significant finding, as for the first time, major respondents identified primarily as Nigerian rather than by ethnic or religious affiliations. However, the report indicates that public trust in government institutions remains low, underscoring the need for continued engagement with these institutions to command citizens' confidence.

Dr. Catherine Aniagolu Okoy from the Ford Foundation emphasized Nigeria's diversity as a strength, while Oba Samuel Adejimi Adu Alagbado, Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, noted the diminishing constitutional relevance of traditional rulers. The event featured Reverend Dr. Ignatius Ayau Kaigama and other leaders who stressed the importance of religious and traditional institutions in promoting peace and social cohesion.