Fostering Civic Awareness and Engagement as a Strategy for Addressing Security Challenges in North-Western Nigeria: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

The persistent security challenges in North-Western Nigeria necessitate innovative and sustainable solutions that go beyond conventional military and policing efforts. This exploratory study examines the potential of fostering civic awareness and engagement as a strategy for addressing security challenges in North-Western Nigeria, a region plagued by banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and inter-communal violence, resulting in loss of lives, displacement, and socio-economic disruption. Despite security agencies' efforts, the region's security remains a significant concern. This study argues that enhancing civic awareness and engagement offers a crucial, yet often overlooked, path to sustainable peace and security. Using qualitative research through training workshops, post-training interviews, and focus group discussions in six affected communities in Katsina and Zamfara, the study employs thematic analysis to reveal that existing civic initiatives have been largely ineffective due to inadequate funding, poor coordination, and implementation. However, it identifies opportunities for building trust between security agencies and local communities, facilitating information sharing, and promoting peaceful coexistence. The study proposes strategies for fostering civic engagement, such as mobilizing key stakeholders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and youth groups and tailoring initiatives to the local context. It also addresses challenges like fear of retribution (revenge), illiteracy, and resource constraints, offering solutions to overcome them. This study contributes to the literature on civic engagement's role in security, providing insights and practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable peace and security in North-Western Nigeria.