Humanitarianism and Spatial Arrangements in Conflict Cities: The Case of Jos, Nigeria, from 2001-2010

Abstract

The environment around the Jos and Bukuru areas in Plateau State, Nigeria has become one of extensive partitioning due to identity conflicts which have led to the demand for more space. With the displacement and relocation of various parties to different parts of the town, faith-based humanitarian efforts have become polarized. In some cases, this has led to intra-ethnic/religious conflicts. This paper discusses this spatial partitioning and its effects on faith-based humanitarianism in the Jos-Bukuru complex. Looking in detail at initiatives by various faith-based organizations to promote intra-faith and inter-faith acceptance and the establishment of confidence in individuals and among groups of divided communities through the encouragement of trust and the provision of opportunities which will lead to collaboration of people and groups from both sides of the divide.