RELIGIOUS TERRORISM IN NIGERIA AND ITS THREAT TO NATIONHOOD

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the threat posed by religious radicalism—particularly forms associated with extremist interpretations of Islam—to global culture and civilization, and to propose pathways for addressing this challenge. Using the analytical method, the study investigates the ideological foundations of religious fanaticism and its impact on democratic institutions, cultural heritage, and modern secular values. The scope of the study includes conceptual analyses of religion, culture, and civilization; historical instances of religious fanaticism in Christianity, such as the Spanish Inquisition and the persecution of early scientists; as well as an examination of contemporary forms of Islamic extremism within a global context. It also considers the destruction of educational institutions and cultural heritage in regions such as Syria, Iraq, Nigeria, and Afghanistan, alongside a critical evaluation of responses ranging from military coalitions to cultural and ideological countermeasures. The analysis indicates that while religious fanaticism is not confined to any single tradition, extremist movements can pose serious challenges to universal values such as reason, scientific inquiry, individual freedom, and secular governance. In some cases, these movements have contributed to the destruction of cultural memory and historical identity through attacks on monuments, manuscripts, and educational systems. The paper concludes that the international community must respond with coordinated and principled efforts to safeguard cultural heritage, democratic institutions, and human freedom. Such responses should avoid both uncritical generalizations about entire religious traditions and the escalation of reciprocal extremism, while promoting dialogue, education, and inclusive governance as long-term strategies for stability.