Journal of Christian Religious Studies

In Plateau State, Nigeria, conflicts over resources, intensified by climate change, have heightened due to environmental degradation and competition between farmers and herders, compounded by ineffective governance. While traditional conflict resolution strategies often prioritize political and security measures, there is a lack of emphasis on faith-based ethical frameworks that merge environmental stewardship with peacebuilding. This research presents and assesses the Relational-Ecological Model (REM) as a Christian ethical approach for mediating resource disputes while fostering environmental responsibility. Grounded in the Integrative Relational-Ecological Christian Ethical Framework, it combines Christian stewardship, Ubuntu ethics, and Just Peace Theory. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered from 384 survey participants and through in-depth interviews with 40 individuals across six conflict-affected Local Government Areas. Quantitative data were analyzed statistically, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings indicate strong community trust in the Church as a moral authority, widespread support for church-led peace initiatives, and highlight the importance of merging ecological stewardship with justice-oriented conflict resolution. The REM offers a valuable framework for enhancing community resilience, promoting environmental care, and achieving sustainable peace. The study concludes that integrating principles of Christian stewardship, Ubuntu ethics, and Just Peace Theory creates a relevant ethical framework for addressing climate change-driven resource conflicts while advocating for sustainable environmental practices in Plateau State. The study recommends that churches, theological institutions, peacebuilding organizations, and government bodies implement the REM as a collaborative framework for conflict mediation, environmental education, and peace initiatives in Nigeria and similar conflict-affected regions.

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