Faith in Flux: The Nigerian Baptist Convention and Ethno-Religious Conflict in Northern Nigeria

Teddy Chalwe Sakupapa; Oladele Peter Adehanloye

doi:10.25159/2412-4265/19750

Authors

Teddy Chalwe Sakupapa University of the Western Cape https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6837-0310
Oladele Peter Adehanloye University of the Western Cape https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2176-7611

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2412-4265/19750

Keywords:

Nigerian Baptist Convention, conflict transformation, ethno-religious conflict, religion and conflict

Abstract

Ethno-religious conflicts in Northern Nigeria continue to pose serious threats to peaceful coexistence among its multi-religious and ethnically diverse communities. These tensions are intensified by the ambivalent role of religion, functioning both as a driver of division and a resource for reconciliation. This article examines how the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) has responded to such conflicts in recent decades through an exploration of the theological, institutional, and practical dimensions of its conflict transformation efforts. Methodologically, this contribution adopts a historical-theological and interdisciplinary approach drawing on secondary sources to analyse the NBC’s evolving strategies aimed at conflict transformation. By foregrounding an African ecclesial response to ethno-religious crisis, this article contributes to broader discourses on the role of religion in peacebuilding in pluralistic contexts.

Author Biographies

Teddy Chalwe Sakupapa, University of the Western Cape

Teddy Chalwe Sakupapa teaches ecumenical studies, history of Christianity and social ethics in the Department of Religion and Theology at the University of the Western Cape.

Oladele Peter Adehanloye, University of the Western Cape

Dr Oladele Peter Adehanloye is a researcher working broadly in the field of religion and conflict.

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