Tanimu, Adamu Idris2023-06-132023-06-132020African Journal and Human Rights, 4(2), 10-21.https://uilspace.unilorin.edu.ng/handle/20.500.12484/11137This is the original copy of this article.This paper examines the additional benefits of developing a democratic rule of law and fundamental rights-based system vis a vis the protection of minorities in Nigerian from an ‘intersectional’ viewpoint. The constitution and other legal enactments provide for establishment of mechanisms for the promotion and enforcement of the rights of religious minorities. It brings into focus the state of play regarding the main challenges depicting the protection of ethnic, religious minorities in the country in light of existing international and regional legal standards. Minority protection is a major concern in enlargement processes as a conditional criterion to accede to international community. A glance at the accession reveals that the dream is yet to be realised. The diversity of religions has influence the distribution of political positions, infrastructure, and economic opportunities as well as the minorities’ rights. Hence, the paper proposes several policy options to address this gap. It also suggests specific ways in which democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, could effectively impacted on minority protection.enLEGAL FRAMEWORKFREEDOM OF RELIGIONRIGHTS OF RELIGIOUSMINORITIESNIGERIAArticle