The Changing Role of Non-State Actors in Nigeria’s Security Sector

Abstract

The research, through the lens of Defence Realism, scrutinised non-violent NSAs’ functions and obligations in Nigeria’s security sector. The paper, through content analysis, argues that although the abuse of power is sometimes carried out by these NSAs, most times, if properly trained and guided, are well organised and work to support state apparatus. It then concludes that, Nigeria’s NSAs, like those of other states, emerge as an alternative to state security’s failure to provide adequate security for the lives and properties of its citizens. The paper concludes by urging the Nigerian state to commit to encouraging entities with solutions to insecurity to come up with them. The paper makes a case for collaborative policing, jointly managed by the state and the NSAs. It suggests that organised means of engaging non-violent NSAs through delegating specific obligations to them would help curb insecurity in Nigeria.