Integrity Journal of Arts and Humanities

Divisive tendencies are not uncommon in many heterogeneous societies. While the factors responsible for the tendencies may be as diverse as they can be, one common denominator is that if such tendencies are not well managed, they may produce unintended consequences for any society, which in most cases lingers beyond imagination. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic state with diverse cultural practices and affiliations. The dichotomous leaning of these elements of ethnicity and culture have the dual capabilities to enhance society's well-being or cause irreparable damage to the entity. Whichever outcome becomes mainly prevalent depends on how well-managed these issues are. Having witnessed too many unpalatable consequences elicited by the dual concepts of ethnicity and culture, this research sought to explore the possibility of attaining other outcomes that may not have negative consequences. This qualitative research is anchored on interviews with scholars across purposely selected academic institutions to elicit perspectives to determine if something can be done to tame the tide of many untoward incidences that have plagued Nigeria due to its diverse ethnicity and cultural pluralities. The outcome of the study is indicative that the outcomes of these dual phenomena can be rechannelled to produce desirable significance by deliberately institutionalizing some pillars that can become the backbone of society. These pillars or institutions will harness the upsides of ethnicity and culture by creating alignment capable of producing synergetic outcomes for the betterment of society. Neglecting such pillars will only mean we continue on the ignominious paths.