Nigeria-Niger Relations and Challenges in Enhancing Counter Insurgency Operations in North Eastern Nigeria (2010 to 2023)

This study examined the challenges of Nigeria-Niger Relations towards Enhancing Counter Insurgency Operations in North Eastern Nigeria from 2010 to 2023. With the rise of insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the region, cross-border cooperation between Nigeria and Niger had become crucial in addressing security challenges and promoting regional stability.
The study adopted the survey research design method. Data was obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, OPHK and the MNJTF. Members of staff from the office of the NSA were sampled using Krajecie and Morgan method of sample size. A total of 380 population were arrived at as the population sample of the study.
Primary data were obtained using questionnaires and interviews which were administered to the chosen population. The responses gave credibility and validity to the research work. Data collected from the quantitative method were analyzed using simple statistical tools such as percentages and frequency distribution tables. These were bar chats and pie charts, as well as Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS version 20), while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
Through a comprehensive analysis of diplomatic, military, and socio-economic factors, the study investigated the challenges of bilateral relations between the two countries and how it influenced the effectiveness of Counter Insurgency Operations in North East Nigeria. This was predicated on the background that the collaborative efforts in Counter Insurgency Operations between these countries were rooted in Nigeria’s foreign policy approach towards enhancing internal and regional security in the West African sub-region.
The study found that effective cooperation between Nigeria and Niger was required to achieve good foreign policy objectives that would address shared security challenges. The research identified some issues which included ineffective COIN strategies for enhanced security in the NE zone of Nigeria.
The study further underscored the impact of bilateral relations between Nigeria and Niger on the effectiveness of COIN operations in NE Nigeria. It was observed that the bilateral relations were fruitless occasioned by failed diplomatic, economic and political ties.
The proffered strategy to mitigate the issues therefore require close cooperation, coordination and collaboration between Nigeria and Niger. Implementing these strategies in a coordinated and sustained manner could enhance Counter Insurgency Operations and contribute to peace building and stability in North Eastern Nigeria.