DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

Military coups have re-emerged as a major challenge to regional security and democratic governance in West Africa in the 21st century. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger have experienced repeated unconstitutional changes of government, raising concerns about political instability, weak institutions, insecurity, and the declining trust in democratic leadership. This study examines the causes, implications, and regional security consequences of military coups in West Africa. The study adopts a qualitative research approach using secondary sources such as journals, textbooks, reports, and online publications. It explores factors including poor governance, corruption, electoral irregularities, economic hardship, terrorism, and external influence as major drivers of military intervention in politics. The study further evaluates the role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other regional bodies in managing conflicts and restoring democratic order. Findings reveal that recurring coups undermine regional integration, economic development, peace, and security efforts within the sub-region. The study concludes that strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, addressing insecurity, and improving socio-economic conditions are essential to reducing the occurrence of military coups and enhancing regional stability in West Africa.

The end of the Nigeria-Biafra War was marked by the magnanimous proclamation of “no victor, no vanquished” by the General Yakubu Gowon-led Federal Military Government (FMG). This was widely welcomed and immediately followed by the policy of “Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction(3Rs)” toward the victims of the war. In a national broadcast, titled “The Dawn of National Reconciliation,” Gowon declared that the task of reconciliationhadtrulycommenced.1 The harsh conditions of surrender expected fromthe FMGdidnot
materialize; rather, the period was marked by the magnanimity of the FMGinpronouncements that guaranteed the personal safety and security of the Igboandtheir properties, the right to re-side and work anywhere in Nigeria, thereabsorption of civil/public servants of Igbo extraction into the civil serviceandthe military, and the granting of general amnesty to the Igbo. John de St. Jorre,
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whose popular account referred to the conflict as “The Brothers’ War,” arguesthat
this was probably the only armed conflict of its magnitude in history, perpetratedwith so much viciousness and bitterness, where no reprisals, trials, or executionsoccurred.2 It is on this backdrop, this study examines the post-civil war policieswith reference to property act law in Nigeria, 1966-1980

The end of the Nigeria-Biafra War was marked by the magnanimous proclamation of “no victor, no vanquished” by the General Yakubu Gowon-led Federal Military Government (FMG). This was widely welcomed and immediatel yfollowed by the policy of “Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction(3Rs)” toward the victims of the war. In a national broadcast, titled “The Dawn of National Reconciliation,” Gowon declared that the task of reconciliation had truly commenced.1 The harsh conditions of surrender expected from the FMG did not materialize; rather, the period was marked by the magnanimity of the FMG inpronouncements that guaranteed the personal safety and security of the Igbo and their properties, the right to re-side and work anywhere in Nigeria, there absorption of civil/public servants of Igbo extraction into the civil service and the military, and the granting of general amnesty to the Igbo. John de St. Jorre, whose popular account referred to the conflict as “The Brothers’ War,” argues that
this was probably the only armed conflict of its magnitude in history, perpetrated with so much viciousness and bitterness, where no reprisals, trials, or executionsoccurred.2 It is on this backdrop, this study examines the post-civil war policies with reference to property act law in Nigeria, 1966-1980

This study examines the impact of government policies on the depreciation of the Nigerian Naira during the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. The research focuses on the economic reforms introduced under the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), which aimed to restructure the Nigerian economy through deregulation, currency devaluation, and trade liberalization. Using a historical and analytical approach, the study evaluates how these policies influenced exchange rate dynamics, inflation, and overall economic stability. Data were obtained from secondary sources, including government publications, Central Bank reports, and scholarly literature. The findings reveal that while the policies were designed to promote economic growth and reduce external imbalances, they significantly contributed to the depreciation of the Naira due to increased market-driven exchange rate mechanisms, reduced government intervention, and rising demand for foreign exchange. Additionally, the study highlights the socio-economic consequences of currency depreciation, such as increased cost of living and reduced purchasing power among citizens. The research concludes that although the reforms had long-term economic intentions, their short-term effects exacerbated currency instability. It recommends the adoption of balanced policy frameworks that combine market efficiency with strategic government intervention to ensure currency stability and sustainable economic development in Nigeria.

This study examines the influence of women in politics in the pre-colonial Benin Kingdom, with particular focus on Queen Idia as a case study. The research explores the political, social, and military roles played by women within the traditional governance system of the Benin Kingdom, challenging the common perception that leadership in pre-colonial African societies was exclusively male-dominated. Using a historical and qualitative approach, the study draws on oral traditions, archival materials, and existing literature to analyze the contributions of Queen Idia, the Iyoba (Queen Mother), to statecraft and power dynamics.

Findings reveal that Queen Idia wielded significant political authority, serving as an advisor to the Oba, influencing decision-making processes, and playing a pivotal role in military strategy, particularly during the reign of her son, Oba Esigie. Her leadership during periods of conflict and consolidation contributed to the stability and expansion of the kingdom. The study further highlights the institutional recognition of the Iyoba title as evidence of women’s formal participation in governance.

The research concludes that women, exemplified by Queen Idia, held substantial influence in the political structure of the pre-colonial Benin Kingdom. It recommends a re-evaluation of African historical narratives to more accurately reflect women’s contributions to governance and leadership, thereby enriching contemporary discussions on gender and political participation.

The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases of international concern has underscored the critical role of international institutions in global health governance. This study examines the role of institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), and other global health partners in managing the outbreak of Mpox in Nigeria. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research analyzes the strategies, interventions, and collaborative efforts employed to prevent, detect, and respond to the spread of the disease. Data were obtained from secondary sources, including official reports, policy documents, and scholarly publications.
The findings reveal that international institutions have played a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s public health response through technical support, funding, disease surveillance, capacity building, and public health awareness campaigns. These organizations have also facilitated coordination between national agencies and global partners, ensuring timely information sharing and resource mobilization. However, the study identifies challenges such as limited infrastructure, funding gaps, and occasional delays in response implementation, which hinder optimal outcomes.
The study concludes that while international institutions are indispensable in managing diseases of international concern, greater emphasis must be placed on strengthening local health systems, improving inter-agency coordination, and promoting sustainable health policies. It recommends enhanced collaboration between international bodies and domestic health authorities to ensure effective disease control and preparedness for future outbreaks.

The word "agriculture" is a term that refers to the various ways that plants and animals help feed and otherwise sustain the world's population. It is well acknowledged that agriculture is essential to the development and sustainability of many economies and that it has the potential of reducing poverty in developing nations. Agriculture is regarded to be the backbone of most emerging countries' economic growth and development. However, policymakers and economic development professionals continue to question how this path would lead to economic progress.

This study examines Nigeria’s foreign policy under the administration of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan from 2010 to 2015, with a particular focus on its economic dimensions. During this period, Nigeria pursued a foreign policy that increasingly emphasized economic diplomacy as a tool for national development, global integration, and regional leadership. The study explores how the government sought to attract foreign direct investment, promote international trade, secure economic partnerships, and enhance Nigeria’s position in the global economy. It also considers the role of institutions, bilateral and multilateral engagements, and participation in international organizations in shaping economic outcomes. The research further analyzes key initiatives and policies implemented during this period, including efforts to diversify the economy beyond oil, strengthen regional economic cooperation within West Africa, and improve Nigeria’s global economic image. Attention is given to the challenges faced, such as fluctuating oil prices, corruption, infrastructural deficits, and security concerns, which influenced the effectiveness of Nigeria’s economic foreign policy.

The advent of the digital age has brought about unprecedented advancements and conveniences. However, it has also introduced new challenges, particularly in the realm of cybercrime. Cybercrime encompasses a wide range of illicit activities conducted through the internet, including hacking, identity theft, financial fraud, and cyberterrorism. These activities have far-reaching implications, affecting individuals, corporations, and governments globally. Nigeria, like many other nations, has not been immune to the threats posed by cybercrime. As the country continues to expand its digital footprint, the prevalence of cybercrime has surged, posing significant risks to national security, economic stability, and social well-being.¹ Diplomacy, traditionally viewed as the management of international relations through negotiation, dialogue, and cooperation, has emerged as a critical tool in addressing the multifaceted challenges of cybercrime. The role of diplomacy in combating cybercrime involves fostering international cooperation, establishing legal frameworks, and facilitating information sharing among nations. This study seeks to explore how diplomatic efforts can be leveraged to
combat cybercrime in Nigeria, examining the strategies, successes, and obstacles encountered in this endeavor

country's foreign policy consists of self-interest strategies chosen by thestate to safeguard its national interests and to achieve its goals within the international relations milieu. It is the aggregate of a country’s national interest which results from the interaction of internal and external forces as perceived by the foreign policy decision makers.1 The approaches used are strategically employed to interact with other countries. In recent times however, due to the deepening level of globalization and transnational activities, relations and interactions have been known to exist between state and non- state actors in the international political arena.2 These relations in their own way have influenced several foreign policies between nation states. When talking about the Foreign Policy of a country, it is usual and indeed desirable to focus on the aspects of those policies that have endured over time. In the case of Nigeria, policies or principles of the various administrations at the realm of foreign relations which have endured over time are usually regarded by writers as constituting Nigeria’s foreign policy; Africa being the centre piece of Nigeria’s foreign policy; non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries; a strong support for international and regional organizations such as the UN and OAU; resolution of disputes through the peaceful means of arbitration and negotiation, etc. However, it is equally true that, one can also talk about the Foreign Policy of a 1 specific administration of any given country. For the purpose of the study,