Structural violence and instability drive surge in targeted violence in northeastern Nigeria
Original framing: “Suicide attacks in Nigeria kill 23, wound more than 100” — South China Morning Post
Women and youth in Borno are disproportionately affected by the violence and yet are rarely included in peace processes. Their voices are critical for designing inclusive solutions that address the root causes of instability.
The violence in northeastern Nigeria is not a result of isolated extremist actions but a symptom of deep-seated systemic issues, including historical marginalization, weak governance, and environmental degradation.
Indigenous conflict resolution systems, often overlooked in favor of militarized responses, offer viable alternatives for peacebuilding. Cross-cultural analysis reveals that similar patterns exist in other post-colonial regions, where external intervention and internal exclusion fuel cycles of violence. A holistic approach that integrates local knowledge, scientific modeling, and inclusive governance is necessary to break this cycle. The Nigerian government, supported by international partners, must shift from a security-centric strategy to one that addresses the root causes of instability through development, education, and climate resilience.