Religious leaders are central figures in many communities across Nigeria and Kenya, yet their influence is often underestimated when it comes to addressing violent extremism (VE). A new policy brief, Harnessing religious leadership to counter violent extremism and build religious tolerance in Nigeria and Kenya, published by Utrecht University in collaboration with the Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA) and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sheds light on how these leaders understand VE, how extremist narratives take shape, and what is needed to strengthen community resilience.
Violent extremism shaped by multiple pressures
The findings show that VE in both countries is not driven by a single factor but by a combination of political, social and religious tensions. Groups like Boko Haram and Al-Shabaab exploit grievances linked to corruption, discrimination, weak governance and cross-border insecurity. High levels of youth unemployment and limited access to education make young people particularly vulnerable to recruitment.
Religious leaders interviewed in the study repeatedly highlighted the misuse of sacred texts as a major driver of radicalisation. Extremist groups distort religious teachings to justify violence or to lure young people with promises of belonging and purpose. This manipulation, combined with mistrust between Christians and Muslims in certain regions, creates conditions in which harmful narratives spread quickly.
How faith leaders help build resilience
Despite these challenges, religious leaders across Nigeria and Kenya are actively countering extremist messaging. The brief highlights how imams, pastors and female faith leaders promote peaceful interpretations of scripture, create safe spaces for dialogue and work directly with young people. Many have intervened during moments of tension to prevent escalation and support reconciliation between communities.
Women play a particularly significant, though often overlooked, role. Female peace advocates regularly identify early signs of radicalisation within families and neighbourhoods, stepping in before tensions rise. Their influence within households makes them essential actors in prevention and peacebuilding.
Policy recommendations
The brief calls for approaches that recognise the unique role religious leaders play in preventing violent extremism. Key recommendations include:
- investing in equitable education and youth opportunities;
- strengthening trust in government institutions through fair access to justice and services;
- supporting interfaith platforms where diverse religious leaders can address tensions collectively;
- expanding women’s leadership in peacebuilding;
- clarifying religious authority structures to prevent misuse of religious messaging.
The publication draws on 151 interviews with religious leaders in Nigeria and Kenya, as well as focus groups and consultations with policymakers, academics, civil society organisations and JISRA partners. The research was developed through interdisciplinary collaboration and validated during stakeholder sessions in both countries.
To find out more, download the full policy brief here.
