past work: nigeria: indigene or settler?

Between rolling green hills and flowing fresh water riverbeds lies the city of Jos, Nigeria, the bustling capital of Plateau state and the heart of what’s known as the Middle Belt of Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation. Jos is a high altitude retreat from the humid south and the arid north with its pleasant climate and highly fertile lands rich with minerals and green pastures. This historic city was a former economic center for many Nigerians and foreigners alike looking to invest in the richness of the land and growing industries. But, after decades of neglect and corrupt governance, Jos tumbled down a winding road of tribal and religious violence.  

Since 2001, thousands of lives in Plateau State have been lost. The crisis stems from growing poverty and over-population, lack of opportunity and corrupt governance and the ongoing battle over rich fertile land. Even though religion plays an important role in the Middle Belt if not all of Nigeria, those in power are using the people’s devotion to fuel the crisis in the long-standing battle for dominance.