The religious landscape in Nigeria, characterized by the dominance of Islam and Christianity, has witnessed a surge in religious indoctrination, driven by extreme interpretations of religious texts (Smith, 2019). This phenomenon has implications for social cohesion, exacerbating existing tensions along ethnic and religious lines. Additionally, the questionable management of resources by religious leaders further complicates the socio-economic landscape. Research indicates that religious leaders wield significant influence in shaping public opinion and often use their platforms to propagate ideologies that may not align with principles of inclusivity and tolerance (Smith, 2019). The lack of transparency and accountability in the use of resources within religious institutions raises ethical concerns, as substantial funds, obtained through donations and tithes, are not consistently directed toward community development or poverty alleviation projects (Adewale, 2020). The consequences of these intertwined issues extend to the socio-economic development of Nigeria and Africa. Divisive ideologies perpetuated through religious indoctrination contribute to social unrest, hindering progress and economic stability (Okafor, 2022). Moreover, the mismanagement of resources by religious leaders exacerbates wealth inequality and deprives communities of essential services. Addressing these challenges requires fostering an environment that encourages religious tolerance, inclusivity, and accountability among religious leaders. Government regulatory bodies, civil society organizations, and the international community play crucial roles in ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of resources within religious institutions.

Keywords: religious indoctrination, resource management, Nigeria, Africa, socio-economic development