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Minority Rights and the National Question in Nigeria pp 183–205Cite as

Palgrave Macmillan

National Integration, Citizenship, Political Participation and Democratic Stability in Nigeria

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Part of the book series: African Histories and Modernities ((AHAM))

Abstract

A united country and people are in a better position to ably confront the crises of development, nationhood and stability. The desire and consciousness of the political leaders and the entire citizenry to do this with the appropriate frame of mind and instrumentalities is imperative for a successful and durable result. This chapter examines the issues, problems and contexts of national integration or the national question in Nigeria. It also discusses the strategies for ensuring national integration, while critically assessing some of the existing constitutional provisions for citizenship in the country. The chapter is empirical. Finally, the chapter posits that States should specify their minimum requirements for citizenship or acceptance of non-indigenes from other States of the Nigerian federation, which (i.e. minimum requirements) should be collectively and centrally harmonized on the basis of mutual respect, equality and coexistence among the nation’s diverse ethnic groups and constituents. There should also be a fair and equal treatment of all Nigerians as well as a deliberate development of a feeling of oneness among Nigerians towards the attainment of a successful democratization process and national stability.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Public Admin, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo, Nigeria

    Enaruna Edosa

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  1. State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, USA

    Uyilawa Usuanlele

  2. McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada

    Bonny Ibhawoh

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Edosa, E. (2017). National Integration, Citizenship, Political Participation and Democratic Stability in Nigeria. In: Usuanlele, U., Ibhawoh, B. (eds) Minority Rights and the National Question in Nigeria. African Histories and Modernities. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-50630-2_9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-50630-2_9

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