The Nigerian government has increasingly relied on the military for maintaining law and order and countering the proliferation of armed groups, many of which pose multidimensional threats to state authority, life, and property of the citizens, as well as national stability and prosperity. This book investigates the Nigerian military's evolution, justifications, considerations, capabilities, engagements, contributions, challenges, and possible ways forward. The book considers the contexts, rationales, and merits of military deployment for internal security and law enforcement operations, as well as the tactical, strategic and policy dynamics, contributions, challenges, and recommendations. In addition to the Biafra, Niger Delta and Boko Haram wars, the book considers less publicised cases of military campaigns against armed bandits, neo-Biafra and Yoruba secessionists, ethno-religious and communal militias, illegal or informal miners and refiners, and smugglers. It also reflects on military partnerships with intelligence agencies and transcends army-ground-forces reductionism in providing airpower perspectives on Nigerian military operations. This book will be an interesting read for policymakers, practitioners and researchers across the fields of political science, sociology, African studies, and military and security studies, as well as members of the public with an interest in Nigerian/African peace, conflict, and development.
