ATTAINMENT OF PEACE AND SECURITY IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIA: ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Nigeria, in recent time, has remained crossly unstable because of a series of worrisome security challenges that are threatening her socio - political lives. The most recent of these challenges are: kidnapping, protest, terrorism, and insurgency, the effects of which are disorder, displacement, and even death. Hence, this paper examines the words peace, security, and traces the evolution of current challenges in the country to insecurity, and as well puts on record factors responsible for insecurity in Nigeria. It then discusses ways of attaining peace and security from Islamic perspectives, citing relevant quotations. This paper does towards attainment of security and peace of mind in the country. In doing this, the paper employs exploratory and theological research methods. Findings reveal that youth unemployment, poverty, and inequality are some of the causes of insecurity in the country. The paper identifies Islamic political principles such as: adl (justice), honesty, and shura (consultation), among others, as practical solutions to these cankerworms. It then recommends the need for government to address the issue of social injustice and inequality prevalent in the country and as well provide basic amenities for the citizens so as to attain security, peace, and peaceful coexistence in the country.