Women and the Pursuit of Sustainable Peace in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, 1999-2023

Abstract

The pursuit of sustainable peace in Nigeria's Fourth Republic remains an enduring challenge due to recurring ethno-religious conflicts, regional agitations, and electoral violence. While much attention has been placed on state actors and institutional responses, the role of women in peacebuilding remains underexplored in both scholarly discourse and policy formulation. Against this background, this paper examines the pivotal contributions of women to the actualisation of sustainable peace in Nigeria since the return to democratic rule in 1999. Drawing from theoretical insights in feminist international relations and peace studies, it underscores the capacity of women to serve as mediators, mobilisers, and advocates in conflict transformation processes. The article contextualises the analysis through case studies from Northern Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and post-election crises across the country. These cases illustrate how women’s organisations, religious leaders, community builders, and civil society actors have contributed to nonviolent interventions, reconciliation efforts, and reintegration programmes. The challenges confronting women — including patriarchal constraints, political exclusion, and security risks — are also critically examined. The paper concludes by recommending gender-sensitive policies, inclusive peacebuilding frameworks, and institutional reforms to amplify women’s agency in the peace process. In advocating for the full participation of women, this study contributes to broader debates on sustainable peace, gender equity, and democratic development in Africa.