Response and efforts at combating terrorism in Nigeria
Manya, Nura Umar
Department of crime management, prevention and control Zamfara state college of arts and science (ZACAS) Gusau, Zamfara State
Abstract
It is undisputable that “Terrorism” as a topic has after the 9/11 attack, provoked a lot of debates and argument most especially in realm of international law and jurisprudence. Since the inception of the 21st century. Nigeria like other states of the world has witnessed incidents of terrorism so much so that life in certain place has become precarious and uncertain. The question that would naturally flow in the mind of a Nigerian are as follows: what are the courses of terrorism? What efforts has the Nigerian Government put in place to combat Terrorism? Are these efforts commendable, efficient of counter-productive? In this paper we intend to answer questions. This paper is divided into five parts. Part one deals with the meaning/Nature of terrorism. In part two, we will look at terrorism in Nigeria. In doing this we will list incidents and courses of terrorisms in Nigeria. We will also appraise Government effort in combating terrorism in Nigeria. In part four, we will discourse Governments impediments/Challenges in the fight against terrorism. The last part will cover recommendation and conclusion.
Keywords: Terrorism, Causes of Terrorism, Challenges and combating terrorism in Nigeria
Impact Statement
Terrorism remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, affecting national security, economic stability, and social cohesion. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international partners, has implemented various counterterrorism strategies, including military interventions, intelligence-sharing, and deradicalization programs. The impact of these efforts has been mixed, with some notable successes, such as reclaiming territories previously occupied by terrorist groups and weakening their operational capabilities.
However, persistent challenges such as inadequate intelligence coordination, insufficient funding, and socio-economic disparities continue to hinder long-term success. Community-based initiatives, improved governance, and addressing the root causes of extremism—such as poverty and unemployment—are essential for sustainable peace. Strengthening counterterrorism policies, enhancing security forces’ capacity, and fostering international cooperation remain critical to effectively combating terrorism in Nigeria. Future efforts should prioritize a holistic approach that integrates military, political, economic, and social strategies to ensure lasting stability and national security.
About Author
Nura Umar Manya Manya was born in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State. After his Primary education in Ibrahim Gusau Model Primary School, Gusau; he attended __secondary school. He obtained a Diploma in Public Administration from the Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda in Zamfara state. He later obtained a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Abdu Gusau Polytechnic Talata Mafara, Zamfara; after which he obtained a HND in Cooperative Economic Management from the Federal Cooperative College Kaduna. He has a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from the Usman Danfodio University Sokoto, he went further to acquire a Master degree in Security and Strategic Administration and also a Masters of Philosophy in Defence and Security Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He is also a PhD fellow with Nasarawa State University, Keffi. He is presently a lecturer with the Zamfara State College of Arts and Science (ZACAS), Gusau. He is also a serving officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service in the Superintendent Cadre; where he serves as the overall head of adult education.
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