Effect of strategic communications on the fight against terrorism in the north east of Nigeria
Institute of Governance and Development Studies, Department of Security and Strategic Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2023, 19(02), 822–833
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2023.19.2.1637
Publication history:
Received on 05 July 2023; revised on 15 August 2023; accepted on 17 August 2023
Abstract:
The impact of strategic communication in executing counterinsurgency operations against terrorism cannot be over emphasised. This basically drives the non kinetic approach that slows us radicalisation of young adults, counters the narratives used by terror cells to gain sympathy from the locals and endangers the ability of terror cells to stablish Forwarding Operation Base in the ungoverned spaces in the northeast. This study examines the effect of strategic communications on the fight against terrorism in the North East of Nigeria. Strategic communications is measured with counter narratives and communication channels. The study adopts survey research design. The population covers the Adamawa State (4,248,436), Bauchi State (6,537,314), Borno State (5,860,183), Gombe State (3,256,962), Taraba State (3,066,834) and Yobe State (3,294,137) whose aggregated population is 26,263,866. The study employed scientific sampling technique determination designed by Krejcie and Morgan (1970) that recommends a sample size of 384 for a population above one (1) million. It randomly selects expert based on their expertise on the phenomenon being studied. The study utilized primary data with the aid of questionnaires developed in five point likert scale. It utilized multiple regression analysis as the technique of data analysis. The study concludes that counter narratives are designed to counter the issues raised by terrorist organizations to justify their actions. The study also concludes that the use of Radio and TV to deliver counter narrative messages improves the fight against terrorism in the North East of Nigeria. The channel of communication determines whether the information will reach the right people and the right time. Also, it determines the level of seriousness that one will attach to the message. The use of community leaders and other members of society with influence like celebrities are recommended, because they have the power to influence many people. The study recommends the development of a strategic communication team that is part of the Counter Violent Extremism program. The study also recommends the expansion of communication channel infrastructure to many parts of the country with the aim of reaching the most vulnerable populations that are targeted for radicalization.
Keywords:
Communication Channels; Counter Narratives; North East; Strategic Communications; Terrorism.
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