The Cross and the Crescent in Nigeria

In recent weeks we have again been hearing of 'religious violence' in northern Nigeria as a result of the resounding win of President Goodluck Jonathan. Goodluck is from the south (predominantly Christian) and his opponent was from the north (predominantly Muslim). It is suspected the violence was retaliatory in nature with many Christians being killed. Overall however, the international media reported the recent elections as having run smoothly with relatively little violence or voter fraud in contrast to previous elections.                                

In the federal capital of Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, city zoning puts the Abuja National Mosque and the National Church of Nigeria (Anglican) side by side in a clear attempt to reflect the acceptance of both major religions on an equal base. As we met with partners in Jos, where MCC has its offices, they identified poverty and politicization as the key factors in most violence. Christians and Muslim are able to live together peacefully until political (national and/or local) leadership stir up sentiments that fuel violence. When that happens it is often deadly. In Dec 2010 many homes were destroyed in Jos but fortunately there were relatively few deaths.

Abuja, FCT

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa but exactly how populous is a subject of speculation. The United Nations estimates that the population in 2009 was at 154,729,000, distributed as 51.7% rural and 48.3% urban, and with a population density of 167.5 people per square kilometer.

It's capital, Abuja, is a new city with reasonably good infrastructure, many vehicles and free-for-all driving patterns. Jos on the other hand is completely chaotic and has a 'fend for yourself' attitude when it comes to transportation. Motorcycles are ubiquitious and fill every available space flowing in between cars as they find their way through and around the innumerable traffic jams.

Nigeria has more than 250 ethnic groups, with varying languages and customs, creating a country of rich ethnic diversity. The largest ethnic groups are the Fulani/Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, accounting for 68% of population, while the Edo, Ijaw, Kanuri, Ibibio, Ebira Nupe and Tiv comprise 27%; other minorities make up the remaining 7% of the population.