Curbing Terrorism and Violence in Nigerian Society: The Role of Information Professionals

This study investigated the roles of information professionals in curbing terrorism and violence in the Nigerian society. It adopted both the quantitative and qualitative research approaches, with three specific research objectives. Twenty high ranking information professionals (librarians) were randomly selected from four states in South-South Nigeria, namely; Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers states. Published statistical data obtained from the Global Conflict Tracker (2021) and semi-structured interview schedule, which involved face-to-face interactions with the respondents to elicit in-depth and firsthand information, were used for the study. The statistical data obtained from the Global Conflict Tracker (2021) were analysed quantitatively to explain the trends of attacks in Nigeria between 2005 and 2020, while responses from the semi-structured interview schedule on the roles of information professionals and factors militating against their involvement in curbing terrorism and violence in Nigeria, were qualitatively analysed using subjective headings. Among others, the study identified that major factors militating against information professionals’ involvement in curbing terrorism and violence in Nigeria include: financial challenges, poor interest in the fight against terrorism and violence, lack of strategic knowledge and on the needed skills to combat terrorism and violent crimes, inadequate supporting facilities and infrastructure, among others. Based on the findings, it was recommended that governments at all levels should provide necessary supports including adequate financial resources and facilities to information professionals involved with the fight against terrorism and violent crimes, while information professionals should develop special interest and demonstrate personal involvement in activities that facilitate the fight against terrorism and violence in the Nigerian society.

Keywords: Terrorism Information Professionals Library Information Services Nigerian Society

Author

• Nse Emmanuel Akwang
  University Librarian
  Akwa Ibom State University
  Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin L.G.A, Nigeria.
  E-mail:nseakwag@aksu.edu.ng
  ORCID ID:https//orcid/000-0003-4098-3518