International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research

Authors
Poroma Celestine Lekia, Deedam Dorka Godbless, Iwuoha Prince Polycarp

Abstract
This paper explores the conflict situation which has engulfed the Nigerian State and examines the efficacy of State-building strategies initiated towards addressing it. The paper traces these conflicts to the political configuration of the country which has remained a product of British political experiment of social cloning. It argues that prior to 1914 amalgamation, each of the 250 ethnic nationalities in Nigeria existed independently and distinctively in culture and tradition. The amalgamation midwifed birth of a country which is a replica of catholic marriage which may not be palatable but cannot be separated easily. By 1954, British government further displayed their political dexterity by introducing federalism. Yet it did not provide the desired unity. Giving the challenges inherent with federalism, the federal character principles were introduced as measures to enhance peace-building and national integration. The study asserts that Federal character as a principle does not pose any challenge rather it is the actors that manipulate the system to their advantage and if the principle is abrogated, the Nigeria Sate will suffer colossal ethno-political domination by some ethno-centric State actors. It also, recommends that restructuring of the entire system has become a necessity and a major key to addressing the overwhelming issues in the nation to enhance peace-building.