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This report examines civil-military relations (CMR) in Nigeria, focusing on the security challenges, popular expectations, and the state of relations between defense/security institutions and the civilian population. It highlights obstacles to stronger CMR, such as a lack of coordination, collaboration, and communication between the military and civilians. In some communities, the military is perceived as an adversary, while others rely on them for protection. The report also explores the varying definitions and perceptions of CMR, from calls for military absence in public spaces to the need for the military’s subordination to democratic civilian authority. Based on field research conducted in Nigeria in March 2024, the study includes interviews with civil society leaders, politicians, journalists, academics, military officers, and diplomats.
The report offers several recommendations for both Nigerian and U.S. policymakers to improve citizen-centric security. These include strengthening governance, enhancing public communication, improving human rights compliance through better training, and increasing the funding and size of the Nigeria Police Force. Additionally, the report suggests improving the quality of legislative oversight and reducing suspicion of NGOs. For U.S. policymakers, recommendations emphasize adopting holistic approaches, increasing transparency, supporting human rights organizations, and fostering multilateral collaboration to address the complexities of CMR in Nigeria.
This report is made possible by the generous support of the United States Department of Defense.
