Department of Political Science and International Relations

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Assessing the security implications of the ECOWAS protocol on free movement in Nigeria
(International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies, 8(2), 2025) Ochoga Edwin Ochoga; Osimen Goddy U.; Pokubo Ibiso Esther
The study is designed to assess whether the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons has had negative implications for Nigeria’s national security. The study used key informant interviews and secondary sources as instruments to collect qualitative and quantitative data. The study critiqued the economic integration theory, and the assumption of the theory is premised on the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers among member states for the free movement of factors of production across national borders. It used the obtained qualitative and quantitative data to demonstrate how Nigeria’s national security has been negatively affected by the free movement regime of ECOWAS. The study reveals that there is a relationship between the free movement enabled by the Protocol and the spread of Boko Haram terrorism, cattle rustling, armed banditry, and the activities of violent herders in Nigeria. Poor implementation of the Protocol by Nigeria, arising from the non-enforcement of Article 4 of the Protocol, the absence of a migration central database, porous borders, and socio-cultural affinities among border communities, are the challenges associated with the implementation of the Protocol in Nigeria. This study argues that proponents of the ECOWAS Protocol on free movement are mainly concerned about the economic benefits of the Protocol for member states without considering the socio-economic complexities associated with the window provided by the free movement regime occasioned by ECOWAS. It is upon this contextual premise that the study reveals that, unlike previous studies, every region has its own specificities to take into account when addressing the concept of free movement. Indeed, given the specific character of migratory movements in each region, there are perhaps as many different approaches to the subject as there are regions. In conclusion, despite the socio-economic benefits of the free movement regime, it has shown that the Protocol has been poorly implemented by Nigeria, with its attendant consequences on Nigeria’s national security. This finding was arrived at by subjecting the conventional perspective of regional economic integration to scrutiny, using Nigeria as a case study. The study recommends that guided economic integration is more desirable for Nigeria’s national security than the ideological allegory of the economic integration theory.
Artificial Intelligence in Modern Warfare: Navigating the Complexities of Ethical Decision-Making in the Face of Uncertainty
(Power System Technology Volume 49 Issue 2, 2025-05-22) Osimen Goddy U.; Ayankoya Abimbola Rachel; Edokpa Fadal Mary; Ade-Ibijola Aderemi Opeyemi
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into military operations significantly impacts international peace, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its implications by the international community, scholars, and policymakers. This study examines the ethical issues surrounding AI in modern warfare, with a focus on accountability, particularly in autonomous system failures. Anchored on technological determinism theory, this qualitative study analyzes secondary data from credible sources, including online resources, textbooks, journal articles, conference proceedings, and newspapers. Thematic analysis reveals that the increasing use of AI in warfare raises profound ethical questions about accountanbility, human dignity, and the future of conflict. The study recommends the establishment of a global framework to regulate the military use of artificial intelligence in their operations
Climate change and migratory patterns of Fulani Herdsmen in Nigeria
(International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, 2024-10) Udoh Oluwakemi D.; Aforijiku Oluwayemisi E.; Abasilim Ugochukwu D.; Osimen Goddy U.
Purpose – Climate change has emerged as a significant global challenge with far-reaching parallel implications, especially in regions where resource scarcity has led to various conflicts and displacement of people. This research aims to investigate the specific dynamics of Fulani Herdsmen’s migratory patterns as well as the socio-economic and security implications of such migration. Design/methodology/approach – This study relied on secondary data from published and unpublished sources. A qualitative research design was adopted and data was collected from scholarly works such as journals and reports published by various governmental organisations and NGOs. Findings – In Nigeria, the intersection of climate change and resource competition has notably affected the Fulani Herdsmen, a predominantly nomadic pastoralist group. The changing climate, marked by erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts and desertification, has disrupted traditional migration routes, compelling the Fulani Herdsmen who are constantly in search of grazing lands to migrate thereby, often leading to conflicts with sedentary populations. Originality/value – While previous studies have explored the relationship between climate change, resource scarcity and conflict, this research seeks to investigate the specific dynamics of Fulani Herdsmen’s migratory patterns and the socio-economic and security implications of such migration. Using the eco-violence theory of Homer-Dixon and the push-pull migration theory of Lee as the theoretical framework, this study analyses how climate change-induced migration has exacerbated tensions between herdsmen and host communities. The research emphasises the need for effective legal and policy frameworks to mitigate these conflicts, proposing sustainable strategies for promoting peaceful coexistence and resilience among affected populations.

Department of Political Science and International Relations

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