In the latest report from the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Nigeria finds itself ranked among the least peaceful nations globally.
According to the 17th edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI), released on its website and obtained by Africa health report,Nigeria secured the 144th position out of 163 countries assessed.
The report, which serves as the premier measure of global peacefulness, highlighted Nigeria’s score of 2.713, placing it just behind the conflict-ridden state of Israel.
The GPI evaluates countries based on 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators, covering domains such as Societal Safety and Security, Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and Militarisation.
Despite some improvements in certain areas, Nigeria experienced a decline in its overall peacefulness, echoing a concerning trend observed globally over the past 15 years.
In response to the findings, the IEP noted,” That the increase in battle deaths was evident even prior to the start of the Ukraine conflict, with a 45% rise in conflict-related deaths between 2020 and 2021. This highlights a larger trend of worsening peace, with factors like external and internal conflicts as well as political instability playing a role in the decline.
Furthermore, while some regions saw improvements in certain safety and security indicators, Nigeria grapples with persistent challenges, particularly in reducing the incidence of violent demonstrations and improving societal safety.
Despite the sobering assessment, the report serves as a call to action for policymakers and stakeholders to address the underlying factors contributing to Nigeria’s peace deficit.
As the world navigates complex geopolitical dynamics, efforts to promote peace and stability remain paramount for the well being of nations and their citizens.
