Evaluating the Role of Christian Conflict Management Practices in Building Sustainable Peace in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Conflict continues to pose a major challenge to peaceful coexistence and sustainable development in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. Persistent disputes arising from ethnic, political, religious, and socio-economic factors have often escalated into violence, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and strained communal relations. This study evaluates the role of Christian conflict management practices in building sustainable peace within the area. Specifically, it examines the causes and dynamics of conflict in Nasarawa Eggon, identifies Christian-based conflict management practices employed by churches and Christian organizations, and assesses how biblical principles such as forgiveness, reconciliation, love, and dialogue influence peacebuilding processes. Adopting a qualitative case study design, the study draws on oral interviews, historical analysis, and document review of relevant secondary sources. Purposive sampling was used to engage church leaders, clergy, Christian youth leaders, and community stakeholders involved in peace initiatives. Thematic analysis reveals that Christian conflict management practices contribute to enhanced mutual understanding, reduced hostility, and improved social cohesion, although their effectiveness is constrained by contextual challenges such as religious pluralism and limited institutional collaboration. The study concludes that Christian approaches represent a viable and complementary framework for sustainable peacebuilding in Nasarawa Eggon and recommends their integration into community leadership structures, local governance processes, and interfaith dialogue mechanisms to strengthen long-term peace and harmony.