The exclusion of women in the fight against terrorism is a violation of human rights and it should not be promoted. This goes in line with the international Convention on the Eradication of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Therefore, the purpose of this work is to showcase the fact that contrary to public opinion and gender perspectives that classify women as the weaker sex and have little or no role to play in issues like this, there is a part which can be done only by women in the fight against terrorism. Therefore, in this piece of work, we shall be looking at some prominent women in the world and the significant parts they have played in the fight against terrorism. The subsequent part of this work will be on a recommendation, things that must be done by every government to include and listen to women on matters that have to do not only with peace building but also with the fight against terrorism.

1. THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN COUNTER- TERRORISM IN NIGERIA
By Abam Chantal Akwembe
ABSTRACT
The exclusion of women in the fight against terrorism is a violation of human rights and it should
not be promoted. This goes in line with the international Convention on the Eradication of all
forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Therefore, the purpose of this work is to
showcase the fact that contrary to public opinion and gender perspectives that classify women as
the weaker sex and have little or no role to play in issues like this, there is a part which can be done
only by women in the fight against terrorism. Therefore, in this piece of work, we shall be looking
at some prominent women in the world and the significant parts they have played in the fight
against terrorism. The subsequent part of this work will be on a recommendation, things that must
be done by every government to include and listen to women on matters that have to do not only
with peace building but also with the fight against terrorism.
Key words: Terrorism, National Security, and Conflict
INTRODUCTION
The notion of national security began with theorist like Thomas Hobbs, J.J Roseau and Nicolas
Machiavelli who highlighted the importance of state sovereignty. They viewed the international
system as a brutal sphere in which states would seek to achieve their own security at the expense
of their neighbors. For example Russia and Ukraine over Crimea and eastern Ukraine, Cameroon
and Nigeria over the Bakassi-peninsular. Inter-states relations were perceived as a struggle for
power as states continually endeavor to take advantage of others. This view meant permanent
peace was impossible in the world. Terrorism is a derogatory term employed by people to
characterize their enemies’ actions as something evil and lacking human compassion. Terrorism
is considered worse than war, torture, or murder. This view is supported by Machiavelli, who states
that “the double standard in international politics makes it necessary for state leaders to act in a
devilish way that would be completely intolerable for individual”. For instance, they engage acts

2. such as lying, cheating (election malpractice), killing just a few. There is no standard definition of
terrorism agreed on throughout the world, and definitions tend to depend on the individual.
According to the Arab Convention for the suppression of terrorism (ACST) (1998) in EGYPT,
terrorism is defined as any act or threat of violence whatever its motives or purposes that occurs
in the advancement of an individual or collective criminal agenda and seeking to sow panic
amongst people, causing fear by harming them or placing their lives, liberty, security in danger or
seeking to cause damage to their environment or to the public or private installations or property
or to occupying or ceasing them or seeking to jeopardize a national resource.
The role of women in political economy is not acknowledged, yet they have been doing a lot on
and off the scene. The focus of this paper is to examine the major roles women play in countering
terrorism using Nigeria as a case study. The questions which come to mind are very vital and need
straight answers. What role do women play in combating terrorism? Is it an all exclusive men
affair? If yes why, and if no, what then must be done for women to showcase their potentials?
These are some of the questions we shall be looking at in this work and in doing so, we shall be
making use of secondary sources of data.
STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
ON the 31st OCTOBER 2000, THE UN Security Council (UNSC) unanimously adopted the
landmark resolution 1325, which calls for an active participation of women in processes of peace
making and peace building worldwide. The resolution takes note of the particular impact of
conflicts on women and urges governments to include women in peace processes. Member states
must act to ensure that gender issues are taken into account in all aspects of conflict prevention,
peace keeping and post conflict reconstruction. The Nigerian government is an active member of
the United Nations and as such has recognized and included Nigerian women in the fight against
terrorism. However, the efforts have not been greatly recognized by individuals, the community
and the nation as a whole. What could be the problem?
RESEARCH QUESTION
What is the contribution of women in countering terrorism in Nigeria?
What must be done to get more women involved in the efforts to counter terrorism?

3. Why are there few women in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria?
METHODOLOGY
The study made use of secondary data that is journals, book (both published and unpublished
books) and internet materials. It will be qualitative rather than quantitative study.
Women in Counter-Terrorism at the International Level
Nigeria is a country which was formerly under the British colonial rule but later gained its
independence on October 1st 1960. Nigeria is found in West Africa. Terrorism became a cause for
national concern as from 2003. Lots of efforts have been put in to combat this life threatening
situation both at the national and international level. The aim of this piece of work is to examine
the role of women towards the attainment of this goal (counter-terrorism) after a brief review of
what others have said as regards the important role of women which cannot be over emphasized.
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the Executive Director of U.N. Women, and Radhika Coomaraswamy
Radhik lead author of the U.N. Secretary-General’s Global Study on Women Peace and Security,
pointed out that the international community must recognize, as extremists do, empowering
women is the foundation of resilient and stability, when they stand firm against radicalization
(GLOBAL YOUTH, 2015). This is to attest that women actually have a role to play in the fight
against terrorism and this can be achieved only when they are empowered. According to the global
youth, terrorism can be better fought when women are empowered, thereby making them realize
they are not limited to the traditional house wives they are often considered to be. The 1948
declaration of human rights provides equal rights and opportunities, as in some cases women get
involved in terrorism based on vulnerability. It is therefore as a result of the fact that in Nigeria,
women are less empowered and given little or no opportunity to showcase their talents and efforts
in counter-terrorism. This can be seen in the abduction of the Chibok girls who were and are still
used as suicide bombers. The solution therefore is the empowerment of women in all domains.
Moreover, Sociologist like Zeinabou Hadari, who worked for over two decades on the promotion
of women’s rights and leadership in Niger once said, I quote “every step forward for women’s
rights is a piece of the struggle against fundamentalism”. If women rights are recognized, as well
as fortified, it will go a long way to boost the fight against terrorism. This view has been supported
by Alaa Murabi, Libyan human rights defender. According to Murabi, “women peace builders are

4. leading the fight against extremism by challenging its root causes. We walk into extremists’
homes, schools and workplaces. We speak to those who feel they have no alternative”.
Furthermore, Farhana Qazi (2015) observed that, “adopting a holistic approach will improve
intelligence capabilities, increase outreach efforts between local law enforcement with local
religious leaders and community figures”. It’s interesting when women are engage in peace and
security initiatives, as it diverts or restrain them from radicalism. Women inclusion in democratic
change and institutions has contributed to shape the society.
Malala Yousafzai (2014 Nobel Peace Prize), children activist shot by the Taliban, due to her stand
against terrorism in Pakistan. In an exclusive interview to sky News, Malala pointed out that,
“world leaders need to wake up to the power of education if they are to combat terrorism”. Her
crusade against terrorism made her a “Noble Prize” winner. Also, Mrs. Esther Ibanga a peace
activist fought for peace in her country, due to the ethno-religious conflicts that plagued some
regions since 1994. Pastor Ibanga is recognized through her leadership of a strong coalition of
dynamic women that desire for peace.
WOMEN AND COUNTER-TERRORISM IN NIGERIA
The effects of terrorism have been felt by almost every person in the society today either directly
or otherwise. Measures have been adopted to counter terrorism both at the national and
international level, yet the outcome still remain questionable. However, the fight against terrorism
has long been considered the exclusive duty of men, always seen at the fore front ignoring the vital
role of women. It should however be noted that certain terrorist organizations involved or use
women to perpetrate attacks, since security forces regard women as vulnerable. This is seen in the
case of the abduction of female students in Nigeria by Boko-Haram. The question therefore is;
how can women be useful in the fight against terrorist acts? For this to be done, people will have
to divert from the global perception that women have little or no role to play, because intelligence
gathering (civil-military relation) effectively done by women.
Civil-military relations is the most appropriate way in which women contribute in counter-
terrorism. There is not adequate civil-military relationship in Nigeria, due to fear and corruption.
The duty of counter-terrorism should not be limited to the military, but community policing or
CMR helps in the fight.

5. Women have actively been participating in the fight against terrorism in recent times through
slogans like “Bring Back Our Girls” after the abduction of 276 Chibok school girls in Borno State,
Nigeria, by Boko-Haram in 2014. It is in this light that, women pulled to the street asking for the
return of these girls (abducted by Boko-Haram in Chibok). The U.S first lady, Michel Obama on
her blog posted a photo with a blacker “Bring Back Our Girls” hash tag on her official twitter
account to spread the awareness. This action of hers was a way to show she is against terrorism
and that contrary to public opinion; women have a significant role to play. Another female reaction
was seen from Nigerian artist, Sarah Peace who created a public art installation in Epping Forest
showing the abducted Chibok girls with black veiled. Also, first lady of Nigeria, Aisha
Muhammadu Buhari and Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, the vice president’s wife met with the mothers of
the abducted girls to discuss on the way forward.
Moreover, the fight against terrorism is perceived as an affair that begins from the family. As
mothers they have a role within the family, specifically in the formation of children’s character. If
every mother or woman does a good job of bringing up her children, teaching them good morals,
godliness, this will prevent the children from engaging in violent and extremist behaviors, thereby
limiting the advent of them becoming terrorist or vulnerable to such. In the community, women
have access to information that can go a long way to counter terrorism. They have capacity to
handle problems in a less violent manner than men. With the aforementioned roles played by
women, these roles can be applied to their involvement in anti-terrorism task forces, law
enforcement, and decision making processes.
Furthermore, a report exposed Women without Walls Initiative (WOWWI) partnership with
Women without Borders, (WWB) in a project known as “Mothers School” in Jos, Nigeria where
147 women most of which were housewives and mothers, were trained to be the first line of
security for their homes families, and communities at large. This training was carried out in five
unstable communities and the impact was tremendous as the confidence of women who were
originally kept out of what was known as ‘men’s’ world’ of addressing security issues, was built
up and the women suddenly realized that they also were part of the fight.
The situation in Nigeria is not different from Syria, thought Boko- Haram has developed new ideas
as concerns IHL. The group seeks to replace the secular state of Nigeria to an Islamic caliphate.
The organization has turned to soft targets such as churches, mosques, schools and markets. This

6. has thus altered social fabric of the country affecting the livelihoods, and economic activities,
creating deep resentment, hostility and mistrust. Women have been killed, widowed; raped by
Boko Haram, become sex slaves or cooks and cleaners. Few that escaped from the Boko Haram
camps returned pregnant and traumatized and even diseased with HIV. Therefore, women are the
most vulnerable as concern insurgency, and security issues. It is on note that, women groups such
as Women without Walls Initiative held a 100000 protest match with the famous slogan “Bring
Back Our Girls” to call the world’s attention to the menace of Boko Haram in Nigeria. Meanwhile
other groups as the CWEENS (Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian
Society) provided a safe house for victims of terrorism and assist with legal aid where necessary.
FINDINGS
The findings of the study proved that a large number of women are not engage in counter-terrorism.
Women are interested in gender related issue such as gender equality, discrimination against
women, but little or nothing is being said about the fight against terrorism. The study also found
out that, limited number of women are involved in counter- terrorism due to gender bias which
regards women as the weaker sex and not strong for the battlefields, thus limiting them to the
kitchen. However, not every woman shy’s away from such discussions as seen from the
aforementioned in counter-terrorism, examples as U.S first lady, Michel Obama, Pakistani teen
Malala just to name a few who are strongly involved in the fight against terrorism.
RECOMMENDATION
Major female associations should be identified by public authorities, in order to reach out and
ensure interaction with communities. It is essential that critical assessment be done by state
machinery (judiciary, women empowerment and other social services) which are in the best
position to engage women in specific situations. The issue is for communities to be aware on why
and how they co-operate with specific organizations, for example UN Women for the sincerity of
their engagement. As such, transparency and accountability are vital tools for sustainable
development.
Nigeria, as well as other States (US and France) should also abstain from implementing inequitable
counter-terrorism measures resorting to profiling based on conventional assumptions about

7. religion, race, gender and ethnicity. Such measures constitute concrete obstacles to women
engagement against terrorism and willingness to contribute to the prevention.
When reaching out to women organizations, state machinery should recognize and put forward
common objectives as focal point. This is because, most organizations are rarely concerned with
violent acts. They rather focus on issues of racism, discrimination, street cultures and lack of access
to social services. States therefore benefit from a better understanding of communities concerns
and strive to address these concerns rather than responding to terrorism prevention objectives with
surveillance.
The support of both state actors and non-state actors are necessary to empower women to challenge
violent extremist activities within their communities (For example Malala Y. demonstrated her
skills in Pakistan, by fighting for female education, when she was shut by the Taliban). Women
organizations and advocates should be given the opportunity to take action and effective training
to mold their messages to specific audiences, both in terms of form, content and delivery. More
should be done to encourage women to develop and share experiences through community
information centers and the Internet.
Early warning signals of radicalization is serious hindrance from a human rights perspective. The
right to hold any ideology or belief even if they are considered to be radical or extremist as well
as peacefully expressed, is a democratic requirement protected under international law and
enshrined in OSCE commitments. Holding radical or extremist views should not be considered a
crime per se, if they are not associated with violence or another unjust course, as legally defined
in compliance with international human rights law. Any restriction to freedom of expression need
to be based on norms, justified, necessary, proportionate and non-discriminatory.

8. Reference:
IBANGA (2015) THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN COUNTERING TERRORISMIN NIGERIA, PRESENTED ON SEPT 09
2015 AT THE UN
http://www.guardianseries.co.uk/news/11364115.Nigerian_artist_marks_100_days_since_schoolgirls_k
idnapping/?ref=rss
https://www.google.cm/search?q=when+did+malala+win+a+noble+price&oq=when+did+malala+win+a
+noble+price&aqs=chrome..69i57.18443j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/10/michelle-obama-nigeria-presidential-address