Nigeria’s performance on the Global Peace Index (GPI) over the past decade and a half has been a cause for significant concern.

The Global Peace  which measures a nation’s level of peacefulness, has shown a troubling trend for Nigeria, with the country’s average score deteriorating by 16% since 2010.

This decline highlights Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with violence, conflict, and instability.

Goodluck Jonathan (2010-2014)

During former President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure (2010-2014), Nigeria’s average GPI score was 2.647, with an average ranking of 146.6 out of 163 countries.

Despite facing numerous challenges, this period was relatively more peaceful compared to the subsequent years. However, the seeds of future turmoil were already being sown, with the rise of Boko Haram and increasing economic disparities starting to take their toll.

Muhammadu Buhari  (2015 – 2022)

 The situation took a turn for the worse under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration (2015-2022). Nigeria’s average GPI score rose to 2.865, and the country’s average ranking dropped to 150.

This period was marked by a significant escalation in violence and social unrest. Terrorism, especially from Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated groups, coupled with widespread farmer-herder conflicts and banditry, contributed heavily to the decline in peacefulness.

Additionally, economic challenges and political instability exacerbated the situation, further eroding the nation’s peace.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu (2023 – 2024)

 Under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu (2023-2024), the decline has continued, with Nigeria’s average GPI score worsening to 2.895 and an average ranking of 147.

This ongoing trend is alarming, underscoring the country’s deepening crises. Increased violence, continued terrorist activities, and a general sense of insecurity among the populace have characterized this period.

The deterioration in peacefulness is a clear indicator of the challenges that Nigeria faces in establishing stability and security for its citizens.

Way Forward 

It is essential for Nigeria’s leaders to prioritize good governance and transparency. Strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served fairly can help rebuild trust among the citizens. Community engagement and inclusive dialogues are also vital in creating a more harmonious society.  

Hence, the GPI serves as a stark reminder of the need for sustained efforts towards achieving lasting peace and stability in Nigeria. As the country navigates its numerous challenges, acknowledging the decline in peacefulness is the first step towards addressing it.

By prioritizing peacebuilding initiatives and fostering an environment of security and stability, Nigeria can work towards a brighter, more peaceful future for all its citizens.

In conclusion, the lower the GPI score, the more peaceful a nation is considered. Nigeria’s downward spiral on the index is a call to action for the government and other stakeholders to address the underlying issues driving violence and instability.

There is an urgent need for comprehensive peacebuilding and conflict resolution strategies. Addressing economic disparities, investing in education, and fostering social cohesion are critical steps towards reversing this trend.

Therefore, reversing the trend of declining peacefulness in Nigeria is not an easy task, but it is a necessary one. It requires concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and the international community.

With the right strategies and a commitment to peace, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future.