Sustainable Development and Internal Security in Nigeria: The Role of Civil-Military Relations

This study appraises civil-military relations (CMR) in Nigeria's internal security operations from 2015 to 2024, examining their impact on sustainable development. Acknowledging the historical context of distrust, allegations of human rights abuses, and governance challenges that have shaped CMR in Nigeria, the research empirically evaluates the effects of these relations on long-term development outcomes. The study investigates the roles of the Nigerian Armed Forces in internal security, differentiating between kinetic (force-based) and non-kinetic (community engagement) approaches. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative data collected from 395 respondents, including military personnel and civilians, to analyze perceptions of inclusiveness, justice, and accountability within CMR. Findings reveal that while non-kinetic interventions—such as humanitarian aid, medical outreaches, and infrastructure projects—have fostered improved community relations and intelligence-sharing, significant concerns remain regarding accountability, civilian oversight, and human rights compliance. The study concludes that strengthening transparency, building trust, institutionalizing collaborative mechanisms, and prioritizing human rights are crucial for fostering sustainable peace and development in Nigeria. It recommends specific policy reforms, enhanced community engagement strategies, and rigorous human rights training programs to optimize civil-military relations.