Effects of the proliferation of SALWs on terrorism in Nigeria: a Case study of Boko Haram activities

Abstract

This study investigates the nexus between the proliferation of Small Arms & Light Weapons (SALWs) and terrorism with focus on Boko Haram‘s activities in Nigeria. SALWs are prominent classes of weapons due to their portability and capacity to ensure defence. As such they are in high demand and are also produced in large numbers. However, these weapons are also illicitly trafficked and transported across state borders. Africa is not excluded as 100 million SALWs are trafficked in the continent. The Boko Haram terrorist sect has managed to use this to its advantage as it embarks on campaign of violence and terror in the North East. This paper adopts the failed state theory to explain the proliferation of weapons and its effects. The study employs the qualitative research method and utilises the case study research design. The study draws data from secondary sources which include already published books, book chapters, academic journals, newspapers and internet sources. As its method of data analysis, the study adopts thematic analysis, segmenting data retrieved into themes in accordance with the objectives of the study. Findings indicate that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is an enabler of terrorism in Nigeria as perpetrated by the Boko Haram terrorist sect. The study also
identified that the actions of the Boko Haram sect have resulted in various effects including deaths, loss of businesses, properties and livelihood, etc. The study recommends that strict monitoring and surveillance be instituted at the borders and illegal access roots to the country be blocked to discourage the transportation of illegal arms.