Tansian University Journal of Arts, Management & Social Sciences

Nigeria, often touted the giant of Africa because of its population, and veritably the economic and political giant of West Africa, is currently experiencing economic retrogression having even suffered recession some few years ago (2016). This has caused huge worry among almost all Nigerians, and has led to reflections as well as actions on how best to ensure Nigeria has continued development. This write-up considering the power of religion delved into an excursus on the roles religion has played and still can play in the development of Nigeria. It used the historical approach as well as the library research method together with logical deductions. Religion was seen to have helped to develop Nigeria in the areas of education, language, peace and reconciliation, provision of amenities and promotion of science and technology. It was also seen to have negated development through religious intolerance and conflicts. Recommendations include: call for not only religious tolerance but also religious love among religionists, greater cooperation between government and the religious bodies in the areas of education and provision of certain social amenities, greater promotion of science and technology in mission schools, greater promotion of our local languages in conjunction with English Language, etc.

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