IMPACT OF BOKO HARAM ACTIVITIES ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MMC, BORNO STATE.

ABSTRACT This study examined the impact of Boko Haram activities on the academic performance of secondary school students in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), Borno State, Nigeria. The persistent insecurity in the North-East region caused by Boko Haram insurgency has led to the destruction of schools, displacement of teachers and students, and a decline in the quality of education. The main objective of this research was to determine how insurgency, fear, and psychological trauma have affected students’ academic achievement, attendance, and motivation to learn. The study also investigated the extent of government and non-governmental organization (NGO) interventions in restoring normal educational activities within the affected areas. The research adopted a descriptive survey design. A total sample of 100 respondents comprising students, teachers, school administrators, and education officers were selected from various senior secondary schools in MMC. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that Boko Haram activities have had a profound negative impact on the academic performance of students in the area. Many schools have been attacked or destroyed, leading to inadequate infrastructure, shortage of teachers, and irregular school attendance. The study also found that psychological trauma resulting from exposure to violence and loss of loved ones has significantly reduced students’ concentration, motivation, and overall academic outcomes. Furthermore, the study established that although both the government and NGOs have made efforts to provide educational relief through reconstruction, scholarships, and school feeding programs, such interventions remain insufficient to meet the growing educational needs of children in conflict-affected communities. The study concluded that the insurgency has not only disrupted learning but also undermined the long-term human capital development of Borno State. Based on these findings, the study recommended that government at all levels should intensify efforts toward ensuring school safety, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and integrating trauma counseling into the school system. NGOs and community-based organizations should strengthen educational support programs to ensure that displaced and traumatized students have access to quality learning opportunities. If these measures are implemented effectively, the education sector in Borno State can gradually recover from the devastating impact of the Boko Haram insurgency.