Ebeke, Walter Ibiam1 and Ibiam, Agma Jacob2,
1Department of social sciences, AkanuIbiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana, Ebonyi state, Nigeria
2Department of Public Administration, AkanuIbiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi State
Corresponding Author’s email: ebeke.walter@gmail.com
Abstract
The intricate relationship between religion, national security, and the development of a nation
has been a subject of significant interest and debate across the world. This study explores the
dynamic interplay between religion, national security, and its potential impact on the overall
progress and development of Nigeria. Three important issues were addressed, which
strengthened the functionalist and social systems theories’ predictions and further guided the
investigation. The study adopts a descriptive research method; which is mostly theoretical and
relies on literature reviews and library research to gather the necessary facts and figures. The
paper reveals a nexus between religion and national security; utilizing this synergy will enhance
even development and reduce fear caused by increased insecurity and moral and social panic
linked to a palpable fear of the unknown. Religious extremism has recently undermined
national security since it has been exploited as a pretext to wreak havoc across the nation,
thereby encumbering economic development, social life and human security, as people seldom
go for their routine activities (work, business, market, farming, leisure, and worship) to avoid
being attacked. This is not without implications for the criminal justice system, particularly
policing and law enforcement administration, which calls for inter-security agency
collaborations to effectively address the problem. The study suggests that all levels of
government should constantly partner with critical social control actors among civilian
populations in crime and security education for better outcomes. Understanding the role of
religion in national security is a practical aspect of national development and economic growth