IMPACT OF BOKO HARAM TERRORISM ON NIGERIA-CAMEROON RELATIONS (2009 – 2016)

IMPACT OF BOKO HARAM TERRORISM ON NIGERIA-CAMEROON RELATIONS (2009 – 2016)

Abstract:

This research is an investigation of the “Impact of Boko Haram terrorism on Nigeria-Cameroon relations (2009-2016)”. Nigeria-Cameroon relations shortly after independence in 1960 has been described as „unfriendly‟, „love and hate‟, prompted by some variables such as border crisis, Bakassi Pennisula crisis and colonial influence. The emergence of terrorism at the borders of the two countries provoked this research which investigated on whether their relations had improved, worsened or remained the same. This led to the review of related literature using conceptual, thematic and theoretical approaches. Linkage theory was employed to explain and guide the study. Data were generated from respondents with basic and sound knowledge/experience on the study area through survey method facilitated by in-depth interview techniques. The study revealed that Nigeria-Cameroon relations before the period studied was not cordial at diplomatic level but flourished socio-culturally and economically. The study established that the unfriendly diplomatic relations greatly improved during the terrorist regime and the level of improvement can translate into better relations in future. The study revealed that while diplomatic relations greatly had a boost during the period of terrorism the socio-cultural and economic circle were on the downturn hence consciousness were on security and safety of lives but, that these areas will normalise as soon as terrorism is degraded. The study finally recommended strategies towards handling terrorism at the borders of Nigeria and Cameroon such as; establishing functional Joint Border Commission, recognition and understanding terrorism as a local and international threat. Establishment of Joint Academy (University) whose responsibility is to research and establish causes of terrorism, and border criminalities and ways to fight terrorism. Joint resource-pull and cooperation should act of terrorism manifest in one country or at the borders, good leadership and governance and also exploration of legal means for repatriation and total economic, social and political independence for Africa. The study also recommended that both countries should explore other areas to boost their socio-cultural and economic ties, colonial heritages and linkages should be sacrificed for good neighbor relations, introduction of National Identification Cards (NIC) for both citizens of each country and introduction of standard exchange of diplomatic relations among the two countries as this will bring more innovations, closeness and peace between them than their daily visits to America, Britain, France and Germany. The best way to handle and fight terrorism is not with gun but improving the quality of lives of the people and good neighbor relations of countries

IMPACT OF BOKO HARAM TERRORISM ON NIGERIA-CAMEROON RELATIONS (2009 – 2016)