NIGERIA’S CONTRIBUTION TO PEACE-KEEPING EFFORTS IN WEST AFRICA: A CASE STUDY OF ECOMOG INTERVENTION IN LIBERIA CIVIL WAR 1989-1997

ABSTRACT This research examines Nigeria’s role in regional peacekeeping through its leadership in the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) during the First Liberian Civil War from 1989 to 1997. It looks into the historical background of peacekeeping in West Africa, the creation and purpose of ECOMOG, and why Nigeria chose to lead the intervention despite facing serious financial, military, and diplomatic challenges. Using both primary and secondary sources, the study explores the roots and developments of the Liberian conflict, the main operations and activities of ECOMOG forces, and the various impacts of Nigeria’s involvement. The findings show that Nigeria’s intervention was driven by a mix of foreign policy goals focused on Africa, national security issues, and aspirations for regional leadership. While Nigeria’s involvement helped to manage the conflict and enable peace talks, it also highlighted operational problems such as poor coordination, insufficient funding, and claims of human rights abuses. Additionally, Nigeria carried most of the burden of the intervention, receiving little support or reciprocity from other ECOWAS member states or the larger international community. The study concludes that Nigeria’s role in Liberia represented a key moment in African-led peacekeeping efforts, creating both a model and a warning for future interventions. It suggests establishing a permanent ECOWAS standby force, ensuring better burden-sharing among member states, implementing stronger accountability measures, and making ongoing investments in post-conflict rebuilding. Overall, the research adds to the discussion on regional conflict resolution, emphasizing the complexities, sacrifices, and strategic effects of Nigeria’s peacekeeping history in West Africa.