Amb. (Dr.) Yemi Farounbi, a seasoned journalist and administrator, has called for a more culturally conscious approach to religion in Nigeria, arguing that religious practices should not become obstacles to development.
Farounbi, a veteran journalist and diplomat, made the argument while discussing religion, culture, and national development in an interview with PrimeStar News Online.
He said Nigeria’s religious practices must be understood within the country’s cultural and social environment rather than simply copied from other societies.
According to him, differences in climate, culture and social conditions influence the way people live and worship.
Farounbi cited the manner of worship in Britain and the United States, noting that religious practices differ because of differences in the character and circumstances of the societies.
He argued that Nigeria should similarly recognise its own circumstances when considering religious practices.
“If you find a man preaching in a commercial vehicle, it is our way of doing things,” he said.
Farounbi also linked the issue to poverty, explaining that Nigerians attending religious services may have concerns that differ substantially from those of worshippers in wealthier societies.
He said some Nigerians could attend church without knowing what they would eat afterward or how they would meet their children’s needs, arguing that such realities could influence how people participate in worship.
He therefore questioned attempts to impose practices without considering the environment in which Nigerians live.
Farounbi also pointed to countries in the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, as examples of Muslim-majority societies that have combined religious identity with investment in science, technology and engineering.
He said Nigeria should similarly concentrate on laws and policies that enable people to use their environment productively and improve their living conditions.
The veteran journalist further argued that religious diversity had historically coexisted with communal life among the Yoruba.
He recalled a tradition in which Muslims, Christians and Ifa worshippers lived together and participated in each other’s social celebrations.
“When it is Ileya, we all go around and eat. When it is Christmas and New Year, we all celebrate,” he said.
Farounbi described this as part of Yoruba communalism, arguing that religious differences had not traditionally prevented people from living together.
He expressed concern, however, about the politicisation of religion.
According to him, problems arise when religious affiliation becomes a political consideration in appointments and governance.
He argued that Nigeria’s attention should instead be directed towards education, economic development and improving the welfare of its citizens.
Farounbi said Nigeria could learn from societies that had retained their religious identities while simultaneously embracing science, technology and economic development.
For him, the central question is not whether Nigerians should be religious, but whether religion and culture can coexist with policies designed to improve the lives of the people.
