The English Language and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria

To an average Nigerian, the incessant conflicts experienced in the society are worrisome. The different conflicts in Nigeria are related to different circumstances. The occurrence of these conflicts has further culminated in mistrust among individuals in the country. Besides, Nigeria is a multilingual, multicultural and multifaceted society with many ethnic groups and each speaking its own language. As humans coexist together in a speech community, conflict is inevitable. This means that there will always be one conflict or the other as long as peoplecoexist. The heterogeneity of the country thus implies that there is need for a language in conflict resolution. English language as the official language performs different functions in Nigeria. This article examines the role of the English language in conflict resolution in Nigeria. It shows how the English language a second language is as old as Nigeria itself and has attained a prestigious position in the country. This is because the indigenous languages are yet to achieve the prestige accorded the English language. It is the opinion of this paper that the English language should be considered to be significantly effective for conflict resolution and uniting the country.