PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS IN AFRICA: NIGERIA'S INVOLVEMENT IN SUDAN

The protracted nature of internal conflicts, humanitarian crises, and regional instability in Sudan has drawn international attention, prompting interventions aimed at restoring peace and security. Among the nations actively engaged in peacekeeping within Africa, Nigeria has distinguished itself through significant contributions in both military and diplomatic capacities. This study critically examines Nigeria’s involvement in peacekeeping operations in Sudan, focusing specifically on its roles within the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) and the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). Anchored on the Regional Hegemony Theory, the research explores the motivations behind Nigeria’s engagement, the nature of its contributions, the operational and strategic challenges encountered, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s foreign policy and regional leadership.Utilizing a qualitative research design, the study employs documentary analysis as its primary method, drawing data from official reports, scholarly publications, policy documents, and reputable media sources. The findings reveal that Nigeria’s peacekeeping role in Sudan was driven by a blend of Afrocentric foreign policy ideals, strategic interest in regional stability, and aspirations for continental leadership. Nigeria contributed troops, commanded peace missions, hosted diplomatic negotiations, and supported humanitarian efforts. However, the effectiveness of these interventions was significantly hindered by challenges such as logistical inadequacies, financial burdens, overstretched military resources, unclear mandates, and host government resistance.The study concludes that while Nigeria’s engagement in Sudan showcased its commitment to African-led conflict resolution and elevated its international profile, it also exposed critical gaps in capacity, strategy, and sustainability. It recommends institutional reforms, improved welfare for peacekeepers, strategic prioritization of missions, and enhanced coordination within hybrid peacekeeping frameworks. By addressing these issues, Nigeria can strengthen its role as a key actor in regional peace and security across the continent.