Religion & The Politics Of Numbers In Nigeria

By CHINO OBASI

A Lingering Question Over Religious Dominance

“WHICH is the dominant religion in Nigeria?” The question resurfaces periodically, often amplified by political undertones and public anxieties. For many citizens, it is less about statistics and more about identity, power, and the constitutional character of the nation.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has long been described as religiously diverse, with Christianity and Islam as the two major faiths. Yet, nearly two decades after the 2006 national census, official data on religious affiliation remains absent — a vacuum that has fueled speculation, suspicion, and competing narratives.

The 2006 Census Controversy

During the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, religion was initially proposed as part of census data collection. However, following objections from several Muslim groups, including the influential Sultan of Sokoto, the religious component was eventually removed.

Christian leaders at the time reportedly supported the inclusion of religion in the census, arguing it would provide clarity and transparency. Muslim bodies, on the other hand, raised concerns that publishing such data could heighten tensions in an already sensitive environment.

The decision left Nigeria without official, government-backed figures on religious demographics — a gap that continues to generate debate nearly 20 years later.

Claims, Counterclaims, and Secular Identity

In recent years, claims of religious dominance have increasingly circulated in public discourse and online spaces. Some voices warn against branding Nigeria as an “Islamic state,” arguing that such narratives undermine the country’s constitutional status as a secular federation.

Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the adoption of any state religion. Analysts note that while certain northern states operate Sharia law within constitutional limits, the federal structure remains officially secular.

Critics argue that the absence of updated demographic data allows unverified claims to flourish. Others caution that focusing on religious dominance risks deepening divisions in a nation already grappling with ethnic and political fault lines.

The Way Forward

Observers suggest that transparency, dialogue, and adherence to constitutional principles remain critical. Rather than framing the issue as a competition of numbers, many believe the emphasis should be on peaceful coexistence — echoing the biblical exhortation in Romans 12:18: “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.”

As Nigeria looks toward future census exercises, the question of whether religion should be included may resurface. What remains clear, however, is that preserving unity in diversity is more urgent than determining which faith holds numerical supremacy.