COUNSELLING FOR NATIONAL INTEGRATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper looked at the how National Integration can be fostered in Nigeria through Rational counselling. Nigeria is seen as a plural society with multi-ethnic, religious, cultural and linguistic diversities. It was observed that since the amalgamation of the different groups that make up the entity now known as Nigeria, the country has remained in dire need of common national integration. The meaning and importance of National Integration and effects of non- integration were considered. The efforts made to integrate the country through constitutional means and the adoption of various policies, though they have not really produced the desired effect on the unity of the country were x-rayed. National disintegration is seen as a major challenge to the educational sector. The problem of national integration was seen to be a behaviour problem promoted/necessitated by illogical or irrational belief and thinking, therefore a behaviour modification strategy of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) was used as a theoretical basis for the paper. The concept of REBT, its processes and how it can actually be used as a viable instrument for strengthening national integration in Nigeria was discussed. It was concluded that for our nation Nigeria to be properly integrated and for the serenity that the education sector deserves to be achieved, the cognitions of the citizens must be positively restructured. Several recommendations were made among which is that the crusade of REBT should be taken to all Nigerians through the various facets of the society by Guidance Counsellors..