Nigeria’s role in the promotion of peace and security in the Gulf of Guinea through multilateral cooperation 2001-2022

Abstract

This work examines Nigeria’s role in promoting peace and security in the Gulf of Guinea region. The regional security theory (RST), which highlights the link of interdependent relationships among states within a region, serves as the theoretical framework of the study. The objective of the research is to evaluate Nigeria’s contributions to peace and security through multilateral cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea region. The study utilizes secondary data from credible sources such as official reports, policy documents, books, diplomatic records, magazines, Newspapers, internet sources, and academic literature. Documentary evidence was used to analyze the data obtained. The data collection process follows specific criteria for relevance, reliability, and credibility. The findings reveal that Nigeria to promote peace and security in the Gulf Region, actively engages in multilateral initiatives and collaborations, such as those within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) since its establishment in 1975, the Yaoundé Architecture since 2013, and the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC) since 2001. In addition, to promote peace and security Nigeria participates in joint patrols, intelligence sharing, capacity building, and collaborative efforts to address maritime security challenges. The study highlights the importance of international cooperation and partnerships in supporting Nigeria’s efforts. Consequently, the work emphasizes the significance of fostering closer collaboration among the Gulf of Guinea countries to enhance maritime security in the area. Collaboration with shipping companies, naval industry stakeholders, and port authorities is essential for sharing information, implementing best practices, and developing joint initiatives to improve security measures and promote a safe operating environment. While progress has been made, the work underscores challenges related to limited resources, capacity gaps, and member-states coordination. It emphasizes the need for sustained commitment, cooperation, and investment in capacity building and technology to address peace and security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea. The work suggests further research to explore the effectiveness of multilateral initiatives, Nigeria’s domestic factors, non-traditional security threats, regional dynamics and cooperation, and gender and inclusivity considerations in Nigeria’s promotion of peace and security in the Gulf of Guinea.