Ochendo: An African Journal of Innovative Studies

This study examines Nigeria's security challenges using the ethical framework of Gaudium et Spes. Despite ongoing efforts, violence and insecurity persist in Nigeria, due to the activities of insurgents, bandit groups, armed militias, and criminal organisations. This has significantly affected social living, cohesion, and order. While authorities rely heavily on military force and law enforcement, it is evident that such methods overlook the human, social, and moral aspects of the crisis. By employing a qualitative approach, the article examines Gaudium et Spes, security data, and Christian peacebuilding documents, and considers how Christian social thought might support more holistic responses. The findings show that Gaudium et Spes offers an ethical framework that emphasises human dignity, the common good, responsible public authority, justice, and the moral limits of force. Weighed against these principles, there are gaps in Nigeria's current strategies, which support the need for people-centred solutions. The research also examines the Church's involvement in pastoral care, humanitarian support, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding. It concludes that Gaudium et Spes provides a strong moral foundation for effective peace initiatives. It further calls for closer cooperation among Church organisations, government, and the wider society.

Open Full Text (PDF)