CURBING RADICALIZATION AND VIOLENT EXTREMISM IN AFRICA

INTERROGATING WOMEN INVOLVEMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This article interrogates women's involvement in extremism and how they can contribute to curbing radicalization and extremism through a study of the case of the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria. Based on secondary data and some expert opinion interviews, the study observes that Women's involvement in contemporary Nigeria occurs at some five levels: (i) women's marginalization; (ii) women's physiological role in family and society; (iii) women's actual involvement in extremism; (iv) women as victims of extremism; and (v) women as role players in de-radicalization and curbing of extremism. Yet, women's involvement has been neglected in the search for remedies. The findings reveal that radicalization and violent extremism in Nigeria have festered despite efforts by the government through increased defence funding, police reforms, enacting and strengthening terrorism legislation, military
option, community vigilantism, international support and cooperation, and dialogue with the insurgents. The article concludes that success has been minimal because the measures do not address the fundamental basis of the problem of extremism in Nigeria. The work suggests women's involvement as an alternative, if not a fresh perspective to curbing radicalism and extremism. Appropriate policy recommendations are made in this regard for the benefit of the government and women's actions.