Highlight 41/2024: Women-led Initiatives in Countering Violent Extremism: The Case of Nigeria
Juliette Béna, 14 November 2024
In the battle against violent extremism, women’s roles in Nigerian communities are proving to be powerful assets. They do not just represent victims of extremism; they are also essential to preventing it. In their central roles as mothers, mentors, and community influencers, women have unique insight into family dynamics and local issues, which positions them as central actors against radicalization. Yet, traditional barriers frequently restrict their involvement in public life. Lacking access to education and economic opportunity, they are vulnerable to extremist narratives that promote patriarchy, uphold rigid gender roles, and aim to subjugate women through discriminatory laws and violence.
Extremism in Nigeria often recruits young men affected by corruption, failed policies, and conflict. Men dominate decision-making, sidelining women who face limited education and economic access, reducing their visibility in leadership. Cultural expectations also perpetuate the notion that men are more suited for roles in governance and security, marginalizing qualified women.
The Women, Peace, and Security Program by UN Women in Northern Nigeria is a standout example of effective women-led program. Through the Women Peace Mentorship initiative, women have become influential agents of peace in their communities. Trained in conflict resolution, community dialogue, and advocacy, they are now central to peacebuilding in their regions, leading initiatives that build social cohesion, offer mentorship to young women, and establish critical early warning systems for detecting potential conflict.
The success of this program shows that women’s leadership goes beyond symbolic participation; it delivers measurable outcomes in promoting peace and deterring extremism. The positive impact of women’s initiatives is amplified through partnerships with organizations like UNICEF and the Nigerian Ministry of Women’s Affairs, as well as community radio, which extends peace messaging to a broad audience.
Nigeria has also seen the powerful impact of women in security roles. The Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), a pro-government group fighting Boko Haram, includes female members who conduct critical intelligence gathering and security screenings. These women are highly effective in detecting threats, especially female suicide bombers, and their involvement respects cultural sensitivities, allowing for more effective counterterrorism operations. Women’s participation in CJTF has not only enhanced security measures but has also proven that women are indispensable in high-stakes security roles.
Supporting women-led counter-extremism efforts is not just a matter of inclusivity—it is a strategic imperative. By harnessing women’s influence and insight, Nigeria has not only curtailed extremist recruitment but has created a more resilient, unified society. The success of women-led initiatives highlights an undeniable truth: empowering women is the most effective path toward a peaceful and secure future. We cannot afford to ignore their leadership; it is vital to Nigeria’s stability and the global fight against extremism.
Juliette Béna, Highlight 41/2024 – Women-led Initiatives in Countering Violent Extremism: The Case of Nigeria, 14 November 2024, available at www.meig.ch
The views expressed in the MEIG Highlights are personal to the authors and neither reflect the positions of the MEIG Programme nor those of the University of Geneva.