Religious Pluralism and Inter-Faith Dynamics in West Africa: A Nigerian Perspective

Religious pluralism is a significant aspect of West African societies, particularly in Nigeria where multiple religious groups coexist within diverse cultural landscapes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including semi-structured interviews with community leaders (n=50) and surveys among youth aged 18-30 (n=200), to understand inter-faith interactions and perceptions. The survey revealed a significant proportion of respondents (64%) believed religious pluralism fosters mutual respect, while 78% acknowledged the importance of interfaith dialogue in resolving conflicts. Inter-faith dynamics are characterized by both cooperation and challenges; fostering inter-religious understanding is crucial for societal harmony. Policy makers should encourage inter-faith initiatives and educational programmes that promote religious tolerance and mutual respect. Religion, pluralism, interfaith relations, Nigerian society