THE ROLE OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN COMBATING INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

This study examines the role of the United Nations (UN) in combating insecurity in Nigeria, with particular focus on the insurgencies of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The research evaluates the scope, effectiveness, and limitations of various UN interventions, including humanitarian assistance, peacebuilding operations, regional cooperation support, and counterterrorism initiatives. Using both theoretical and empirical approaches, the study investigates how the UN, through agencies such as UNHCR, OCHA, and the UN Office of Counterterrorism, has responded to the escalating security crisis in northeastern Nigeria and the broader Lake Chad Basin. It highlights the significant contributions of the UN in delivering emergency relief to internally displaced persons, facilitating regional military collaboration through the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and promoting human rights and development-oriented counterterrorism frameworks. However, the research also identifies critical challenges such as poor coordination, limited funding, political resistance, and difficulties accessing conflict zones. The findings suggest that while the UN’s involvement has had meaningful impacts, a more integrated and long-term strategy, linking humanitarian aid with development, governance reform, and security cooperation is essential for sustainable peace and security in Nigeria. The study contributes to the discourse on international security, counterterrorism, and the role of multilateral institutions in fragile states.