| 1 |
Author(s):
Benjamin T. Tough, Emmanuel Shaaperah.
Page No : 1-22
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Cybersecurity, Governance and Data Protection Compliance in Sub-National Public Institutions in Benue State: An Assessment of Digital Transformation Agenda
Abstract
Digitalisation of public institutions has increased cybersecurity and data protection risks at all level. In Nigeria, weak governance structures, unclear roles, and limited staff capacity hinder effective Nigeria Data Protection Regulations (NDPR) compliance. In Benue State, poor policy enforcement and accountability mechanisms threaten data security, privacy, and sustainable digital governance. It is against this backdrop that the study examined cybersecurity governance and data protection compliance in sub-national public institutions, with specific focus on Benue State’s digital transformation agenda with a specific focus on organizational structures, staff capacity, and institutional practices on compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) and international data protection standards. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from staff of selected ministries, departments, and agencies using structured questionnaires. Institutional theory was adopted as a theoretical framework for the study. The findings showed that organisational structures were found to lack clearly defined roles, reporting systems, and accountability mechanisms necessary for effective data protection. Staff capacity was identified as a critical constraint, as inadequate training and limited resources hinder consistent compliance. However, institutional monitoring and accountability practices showed relatively stronger influence on compliance with international data protection standards. The study concludes that effective digital transformation at the sub-national level requires robust cybersecurity governance, strengthened organisational frameworks, continuous capacity-building, and enforceable compliance mechanisms. It recommends improved policy enforcement, institutional restructuring, targeted staff training, and alignment with national and international data protection standards to ensure sustainable and secure digital governance in Benue State.
Keywords: Cybersecurity governance, data protection compliance and digital transformation.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Abiodun Joseph Oluwadare, Solomon Enema Ogidi.
Page No : 23-37
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Governance and National Security in Nigeria: A Study of Jama’a, Kajuru, and Zaria Local Government Areas of Kaduna State
Abstract
This paper examines the relationship between governance and national security in Nigeria, with a specific focus on three local government areas in Kaduna State: Jama'a, Kajuru, and Zaria. Drawing on qualitative data and an extensive review of literature, the study interrogates how governance deficits manifested in poor service delivery, institutional weakness, corruption, and political exclusion, have fueled persistent insecurity across the three study areas. The paper adopts the failed-state theory and the human security framework as its analytical lenses. Findings reveal that Jama'a LGA is beleaguered by farmer-herder conflicts and kidnapping, exacerbated by weak state presence; Kajuru LGA continues to suffer deadly communal clashes along ethno-religious fault lines that have resisted government intervention; while Zaria LGA faces urban insecurity, banditry and the residual effects of the 2015 Zaria massacre. The paper argues that sustainable security in these localities requires governance reforms anchored in accountability, community engagement, and state-society trust. It recommends decentralised security governance, improved intelligence architecture, and inclusive political processes as pathways to peace.
Keywords: Governance, National Security, Farmer-Herder, Conflict, Banditry, Human Security
| 3 |
Author(s):
Ngozi Thelma Mohammed , Baba Andrew Gaiya.
Page No : 38-51
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Banditry and Food Security in Kaduna State: A Study of Birnin Gwari, Kajuru and Kubau Local Government Areas of Kaduna State
Abstract
This study examines the nexus between armed banditry and food security in Kaduna State, Nigeria, with a focused analysis of three affected local government areas: Kajuru, Birnin Gwari, and Kubau. Drawing on the frameworks of Routine Activity Theory and the Human Security concept, the study interrogates the multidimensional pathways through which banditry undermines food production, distribution, access, and consumption in the selected local government areas. Employing a qualitative research design anchored on secondary data sources, the paper finds that the persistent activities of armed bandits have resulted in mass displacement of farming communities, destruction of farmlands, rustling of livestock, disruption of rural markets, and blockage of food supply routes, collectively producing acute food insecurity across the three local government areas. The study establishes that Birnin Gwari, and Kajuru, which historically constitute significant agricultural zones in Kaduna State, have witnessed extraordinary levels of community sacking, farmland abandonment, and food price inflation directly attributable to banditry. It further reveals that state and federal government responses, including military operations and humanitarian interventions, have achieved limited success due to the adaptive operational strategies of armed bandits and the structural vulnerabilities of affected communities. The paper concludes with policy recommendations centred on integrated security governance, rural livelihood restoration, and community-based early warning systems as necessary conditions for restoring food security in the affected areas.
Keywords: Banditry, Food Security, Agricultural Disruption, Livelihood Vulnerability
| 4 |
Author(s):
PAUL Andrew Kumsat, MALLAI, Kefas Josiah.
Page No : 52-66
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The Impact of Technology on War and Military Warfare
Abstract
This study examines the transformative impact of technological innovation on warfare and military operations across history, from early gunpowder weapons to modern advances in artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and autonomous systems. Employing a qualitative historical-comparative approach, the research synthesizes scholarly literature and defense policy reports to analyze how successive technological breakthroughs have reshaped military doctrine, command and control systems, and strategic behavior. Drawing on frameworks such as technological determinism and the Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA), the study highlights the complex interplay between technology, institutional adaptation, and ethical governance. Findings emphasize that technological change alone does not determine military outcomes; rather, its strategic effects depend on effective doctrinal integration and organizational responsiveness. The paper concludes with tailored recommendations for military institutions, policymakers, international bodies, and academia to navigate the challenges and opportunities of emerging military technologies responsibly.
Keywords: Technological Innovation, Warfare, Military Doctrine, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Warfare, Autonomous Systems, Revolution in Military Affairs, Ethical Governance
| 5 |
Author(s):
ABDULLAHI Mu’awiyya.
Page No : 67-87
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Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the Burden of Insecurity Challenges in Nigeria: A Reflection on Cattle Rustling and Armed Banditry in Katsina State
Abstract
This study examines the roles of civil society organizations (CSOs) in mitigating the insecurity challenges of cattle rustling and armed banditry in Katsina state. The study is anchored within the Nesbit’s typology of NGOs/CSOs activities in peacebuilding process. Data was generated from the primary and secondary sources. The study administered 384 questionnaires across eight (8) local government areas (LGAs) purposely selected for the study. In-depth Interviews were also conducted with 12 CSOs’ members using a semi-structured questionnaire across the LGAs. The study used content and descriptive approaches for data analysis. The findings revealed that forty-eight (48) CSOs engaged in advocacy, policy, relief/aid, transformation, and self-defence activities. The CSOs generated funds from internal, community contributions, and external sources. They used different strategies to impact positively in curbing the challenges of insecurity. However, they faced challenges of inadequate funding, shortage of personnel and transportation facilities, threats, and fears to be kidnapped or killed in the course of their activities. The study concluded that the CSOs have tremendously contributed and improved peaceful conditions of the affected communities in the LGAs. Thus, recommended that the international, national, state and other donor agencies should direct support and assistance to strengthen the CSOs’ initiatives and capabilities towards addressing the insecurity challenges of cattle rustling and armed banditry in Katsina state.
Keywords: Civil Society Organizations, Cattle Rustling, Armed Banditry, Insecurity, Katsina State, Nigeria
| 6 |
Author(s):
NAZIRU Haruna .
Page No : 88-104
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The Impact of Refugee’s Camp Displacement on the Nigeria-Niger Border Security, 2020- 2025
Abstract
This paper examines the impact of Refugee’s camp displacement on the Nigeria-Niger border security, the Refugee of Nigerian origin displacement from camps and non-camp settings (Host communities) in the republic of Niger is a complex issue, with numerous impacts on the Nigeria-Niger border-security. The displacement is a catalyst and threat to border security, often stem from social and economic disruption or lack of basic necessities on camps leading to competition between refugee and the hosting communities, these challenges make refugees vulnerable to crime and other vices. Therefore, this paper assessed the factors responsible of refugees of Nigerian origin displacement in the republic of Niger camps, which posed a challenge to border security and management. The paper used systemic state-security model as a framework of analysis, the theory holds a holistic framework treats security as an integrated system, extending beyond technical controls to include people, processes and organizational strategy. The paper used field survey research method, employing both primary and secondary source of data, using questionnaire and interview as the instruments of data collection. It is established that, the weak trans-border security cooperation between Nigeria and Niger has led to influx of Nigerian refugees with huge pressure on the already insufficient resources and capacity of host Nigerien families. The Porosity of the border, convergence of economic opportunities along border line, Maltreatment/harassment of refugee by security personals, availability of the criminal activities like smuggling and the cultural, social and religious similarities are the major factors responsible of the refugee’s displacement on camps and this posed a threat to border security. There should be serious commitment on border security, mutual assistance and bi-lateral relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Niger on effective collaborations and policy harmonization.
Key words: Refugee, IDPs, Nigeria-Niger, trans-border security, and security cooperation
| 7 |
Author(s):
DAKUSUK, Markus Jimwan, APAT, Kiden Tanimu, PhD, HENRY Humphrey Dater, PhD .
Page No : 105-122
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Political Party Dynamics in Nigeria: Origin and Trends; A Governance Perspective
Abstract
The paper examines the political dynamics of political parties in Nigeria, tracing their historical development, identifying prevailing trends, and analyzing their impact on governance. It explores the relationship between ethnic, regional, and ideological factors that shape political parties and how these trends influence policy outcomes and democratic consolidation in Nigeria. The paper adopted content analysis to examine the positions of different scholars as they relate to the study. The study concluded that the dynamics of political party competition are largely influenced by historical and socio-cultural factors, which have produced political party systems that are not ideologically based and which take cues largely from pre-modern forces. The paper recommended that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should introduce criteria for effective party registration that prioritize policy coherence and national outreach over mere geographical spread to promote value and issue-driven political parties that would enhance good governance.
Keywords: Political party, competition, origin, dynamics, governance
| 8 |
Author(s):
IBRAHIM, Musa, ABDULNASIR Umar, PhD , ADEDOYIN, Betiku .
Page No : 123-144
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Institutional Effectiveness of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Crime Control and Critical Infrastructure Protection in Katsina State, Nigeria (2012-2024)
Abstract
This study examines the institutional effectiveness of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in crime control and critical infrastructure protection in Katsina State (2012-2024). The lager framework of vandalisation of public assets necessitates the wide range of approaches to confront the problems, leading to the integration of NSCDC as a critical component in internal security operations in Nigeria and Katsina State in particular. The study explores the efficacy of the NSCDC in combating crime and challenges of vandalism in Katsina State. The study was underpinned by social contract theory. Methodologically, the study employed mixed methods via an explanatory sequential design that supports the collection of quantitative data followed by qualitative data. Essentially, quantitative data was gathered through the administration of questionnaire, while qualitative data was elicited by means of key informant interview (KII). Scientifically, the Taro Yamane formula for determining sample size was used to arrive at the appropriate sample size (400) out of 1,339,668 sampling frame of the study. To verify and corroborate the quantitative data, 24 participants were interviewed, with the sample size determined by data saturation. Quantitative data was presented and analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was presented and analysed qualitatively. The findings of the study reveal, among other things, that the NSCDC is effective in curbing the menace of vandalization of critical national assets and infrastructure in Katsina State. This study recommends acquiring contemporary equipment to support the NSCDC in combating the vandalism of essential national assets and infrastructure and to enhance its overall internal security operations.
Keywords: Vandalization, National Assets, Crime Control, Infrastructure Protection, Operations.
| 9 |
Author(s):
PRINCEWILL Okwara, Ph.D , NJOKU Hyacinth Tochukwu, Ph.D , Emmanuel Ochogwu .
Page No : 145-158
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An Assessment of the Impact of Cryptocurrency on Terrorism Financing in Nigeria
Abstract
This study assesses the impact of cryptocurrency on terrorism financing in Nigeria focusing on the growing use of digital financial technologies and their implications for national security. The rapid adoption of cryptocurrencies has transformed financial transactions globally, offering efficiency and innovation while also creating new avenues for illicit financial activities. In Nigeria, concerns have emerged regarding the potential exploitation of cryptocurrencies by terrorist groups and criminal networks to facilitate terrorism financing and evade regulatory oversight. The objectives of the study are to examine the extent to which cryptocurrencies are used in financing terrorist activities in Nigeria, identify vulnerabilities within the country’s financial and regulatory systems, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. The study is anchored on Technology Determinism Theory, popularized by Marshall McLuhan in 1964, which emphasizes the role of technology in shaping social behavior and institutional responses. A mixed-method research design was adopted, drawing on both primary and secondary data sources, including interviews with officials from key regulatory institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Findings reveal that while cryptocurrencies are increasingly being considered as a tool for terrorism financing, they remain secondary to traditional cash-based methods in Nigeria. However, their anonymity, speed, and borderless nature present emerging security risks. The study concludes that strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing institutional capacity, and aligning national policies with the standards of the Financial Action Task Force are essential for effectively combating terrorism financing in the digital era.
Key Words: Cryptocurrency, Terrorism Financing, Digital Currency, Financial Crime.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Sulaiman Saidu Abubakar.
Page No : 159-179
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Africa and BRICS+ in a Disrupted Global Order: Strategic Autonomy under Trump 2.0
Abstract
The return of Donald Trump to the US presidency in 2025 has deepened fractures in the post–World War II global governance system, creating profound uncertainties for the Global South. While BRICS+ has emerged as a pivotal coalition reshaping international economic and political relations, Africa’s positioning within this evolving landscape remains under-examined. The core problem this study addresses is how African states can pursue strategic autonomy and sustainable development when the established liberal order is in retreat and BRICS+ offers both opportunities and risks. The study analysed Africa’s engagement with BRICS+ in the context of US disruption of multilateral institutions under Trump 2.0, specifically examining the viability of BRICS+ as an alternative platform for African participation in global governance and the strategies African countries use to balance agency between competing powers to avoid dependency traps. Methodologically, the study adopted a qualitative research design, combining discourse analysis of official communiqués and policy statements with case studies of Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia. These were evaluated using indicators such as trade alignment, institutional hedging, and policy autonomy, supported by secondary data on trade, FDI, and governance frameworks. The study found that while BRICS+ enhances Africa’s bargaining power and policy space, challenges of asymmetry, debt, and geopolitical rivalry undermine its potential benefits. It argues that Africa’s strategic autonomy depends on recalibrating engagement with both BRICS+ and Western institutions. Ultimately, this study contributes to debates on multipolarity, dependency theory, and African agency, offering insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners navigating an unstable global order.
Keywords: Africa, BRICS+, Trump 2.0, global governance, strategic autonomy.
| 11 |
Author(s):
Magajiya Tanko, PhD, Abubakar Abdullahi Muhammad .
Page No : 180-205
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Herdsmen and Farmers Conflict in Nigeria Implications for National Integration (A Study of Benue State)
Abstract
The study examines herder - framers conflict: implication for development in Nigeria, a study of Benue state. The objectives of the study is to find out the causes of farmer’s pastoralist conflicts and food security in Benue state and find out the socio- economic effect of the conflict on the farmers in the state. The research review literature on security, types of security and food security in Nigeria, the democratic peace theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. The data used in this study was collected from both primary and secondary sources, the primary method of data collection included the use of a research instrument which is the questionnaire. Secondary sources of data collection on the other hand, included textbooks, journal, government documents and internet materials. The study adopted the use of simple percentage, tables and descriptive content approach for data analysis. The study revealed that clashes between farmers and herdsmen have left in its trail heavy losses of lives and property. These losses of lives have adversely affected farming activities and other related businesses. This has resulted in a drastic reduction in farm outputs, a development that has heightened the fear of hunger. Already most farmers in the affected states have abandoned farms for fear of being attacked by the herdsmen. The opinion of many citizens of Benue State is that Hausa-Fulani Muslim herdsmen are seeking to invade and occupy territories in the state, with the aim of spreading Islam, the ultimate goal being to undermine Christianity and the homeland rights of indigenous Christians. This opinion would seem to be confirmed by the increasing numbers of Hausa-Fulani Muslim herdsmen entering the state, as well as by the sharp increase in the number of attacks against indigenous Christian communities. Finally, the study made useful recommendations, both herdsmen and farmers should stop making hate speeches because hate speeches encourage anger and destroys unity. And those making hate speeches should be brought to book.
| 12 |
Author(s):
NASA’I Muhammad Gwadabe, PhD, DAYYABU Ahmed .
Page No : 206-224
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Between Commitment and Ineffectiveness: A Critical Analysis of Government Response to Internal Displacement in Northeast Nigeria
Abstract
Internal displacement in Northeast Nigeria, driven by the protracted insurgency of Boko Haram, remains a significant humanitarian challenge, displacing over two million people since 2009. In response, the Nigerian government has implemented a range of interventions, including the establishment of internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, emergency relief distribution, and resettlement programmes. However, the effectiveness of these interventions remains contested. This study critically examines the nature, effectiveness, and limitations of the government’s response to internal displacement in Northeast Nigeria. Adopting a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 purposively selected participants and supplemented with secondary sources. The analysis was guided by the Cluster Approach framework and the theory of Sovereignty as Responsibility, while thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data. The findings reveal that although the government demonstrated commitment across key humanitarian sectors: food and nutrition, healthcare, WASH, shelter, protection, and resettlement, its response was largely reactive, fragmented, and characterised by weak coordination, inadequate institutional capacity, and short-term planning. These limitations have resulted in significant gaps in service delivery, contributing to prolonged displacement and inadequate living conditions among internally displaced persons. The study concludes that the government’s response reflects a combination of commitment and ineffectiveness, with a persistent gap between policy intentions and humanitarian outcomes. It recommends strengthening institutional coordination, enhancing accountability, and adopting sustainable, rights-based approaches to displacement management. The study contributes to debates on humanitarian response of state in conflict-affected settings.
Keywords: Internal Displacement, Government Response, Northeast Nigeria, Humanitarian Intervention, Boko Haram, IDPs
| 13 |
Author(s):
IGAH Sunday, Caleb Okpe.
Page No : 225-244
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Intelligence Gathering as a Strategic Tool for Effective Security Policy in Nigeria
Abstract
Nigeria faces complex security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping, which threaten national stability and public safety. The effectiveness of security policy is heavily dependent on the strategic use of intelligence gathering to anticipate, prevent, and respond to these threats. This study employs a qualitative research methodology, relying on secondary data from academic publications, official reports, and policy documents to examine how intelligence informs national security policy in Nigeria. The study adopts the system theory as its theoretical framework. Findings indicate that intelligence gathering plays a critical role in shaping proactive and reactive security measures, informing operational decisions, resource allocation, inter-agency coordination, and crisis management. Examples from counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram and regional intelligence-sharing initiatives highlight the strategic value of intelligence. However, the study also identifies persistent challenges, including inter-agency rivalry, limited technological capacity, human resource constraints, political interference, and inadequate funding, which reduce the effectiveness of intelligence in supporting security policy. The study concludes that intelligence is indispensable for national security but requires robust administrative structures, enhanced coordination, adequate resources, and stakeholder cooperation to maximise its impact. Recommendations emphasise government, agencies, communities, and international partners’ roles in strengthening intelligence-led security policy.
Keywords: Administration, Banditry, Coordination, Intelligence, National Security, Policy, Nigeria
| 14 |
Author(s):
FRANC Ter Abagen, EMMANUEL Shaaperah.
Page No : 245-262
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Urban Digitalization and Public Safety: Networked Surveillance Systems in Makurdi Metropolis, Nigeria
Abstract
This study examines urban digitalization and public safety with a focus on networked surveillance systems in Makurdi metropolis, Nigeria. The study investigates the role of surveillance technologies in enhancing public safety, assesses the contribution of urban digitalization to crime prevention and security management, and identifies challenges affecting the implementation and governance of these systems. A descriptive research design was adopted, using both primary data collected through structured questionnaires and secondary sources. A sample of 385 respondents was selected using purposive sampling, while data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The paper is anchored on Surveillance Theory (Panopticism). Findings reveal that networked surveillance systems significantly enhance public safety, urban digitalization technologies contribute positively to crime prevention and security management, and several challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, weak coordination, and limited technical capacity, hinder effective implementation. The study concludes that while digital surveillance improves urban security, its effectiveness depends on addressing institutional and infrastructural constraints. It recommends expansion of surveillance infrastructure, integration of advanced digital technologies, capacity building for security personnel, and stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure effective governance and public trust.
Keywords: Urban digitalization, public safety, Networked surveillance, and Smart cities.
| 15 |
Author(s):
Justina Yator Sorkaa.
Page No : 263-281
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The Impact of Digital Tools on Health Records Management in Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi
Abstract
This study examined the impact of digital tools on health records management in Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi. A descriptive research design was adopted, and data were collected using structured questionnaires from 400 healthcare workers and administrative staff. The paper is anchored on the Diffusion of Innovation Theory by Everett Rogers (1962). The findings revealed that digital tools significantly improve the timeliness of record retrieval and updating, enhance the accessibility of patient records across departments, and increase the efficiency of record storage and management systems. The study also found that despite these benefits, challenges such as inadequate technical capacity and infrastructural limitations still affect effective implementation. Based on the findings, the study recommends that hospital management should upgrade electronic health record systems, strengthen ICT infrastructure, and provide continuous staff training to improve digital competence. It further recommends the integration of interoperable systems across departments to enhance coordination and efficiency in health records management.
Keywords: Benue State University Teaching Hospital, digital tools, electronic health records, health records management, and hospital efficiency
