The Military and Nation Building in Nigeria: Processes, Strategies and the Generals (1966 – 1999)

Abstract

Conflict is universal, old, inevitable, and indissoluble; hence, it is an act of nation-building. The heterogeneity of human beings forms the basis for conflict. Conflict, by its very nature, can only be mitigated, reduced, or managed. Due to their ill-defined delimitation, borders and borderland conflicts have thrown communities into hostilities and violent confrontations over the years. The concomitant consequences of these are armed conflict, destruction of lives and property, displacement of communities, stagnation of economic and commercial activities, poor living conditions, and poverty. This paper therefore seeks to review and examine the role of stakeholders in preventing, managing, and resolving conflict in this crucial area of human endeavour. Cross River State has both internal and external borders, making her a focal point for boundary and borderland issues. Accusing fingers are still being pointed at the "inglorious" and "infamous" DECREE 23 of 1985, where little or no consultations were made by the federal government with relevant stakeholders. It is the position of this paper, among others, that the National Boundary Commission should be more proactive in boundary demarcation. A new approach should also be evolved in terms of how women are involved in the peace negotiation processes, since they are the majority in farming. This paper uses both primary and secondary sources of data while relying on interdisciplinary methodology for its analysis.