This paper examines the pivotal role of media in promoting dialogue and resolving intercultural conflicts, with a particular focus on Nigeria’s complex socio-political environment. Given Nigeria’s status as one of the largest media markets globally, the study explores how traditional and new media influence conflict dynamics. The proliferation of social media has transformed conflict escalation, presenting challenges and opportunities for conflict management. This analysis highlights the dual role of media as both a catalyst for conflict and a potential mediator, stressing the need for strategic engagement. The paper illustrates how media can be harnessed to promote understanding and peace through recent case studies, including the impact of social media on cultural clashes and the role of media in recent political protests. Recommendations include enhancing media literacy, establishing regulatory networks to oversee inflammatory content and developing training programmes for journalists to address intercultural conflicts sensitively. The study underscores the importance of media in bridging cultural divides and fostering sustainable development through informed and responsible reporting.
Keywords: Ethnic Conflict, Cultural Diversity, Peacebuilding, Conflict-Sensitive Reporting, Intercultural Dialogue, Conflict Resolution.