STEMMING THE TIDE OF INSURGENCY THROUGH FUNCTIONAL LITERACY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Insurgency and terrorism have been major issues threatening nations globally. This development permeates racial, colour, ethnic, creed, religious, political and cultural divides. Nigeria has been severely threatened by the Boko Haram insurgency, which has resulted in widespread violence, loss of lives, economic decline, and the displacement of millions. Despite numerous military interventions, huge chunk of resources and international collaborations, the crisis persists, necessitating alternative and sustainable solutions. This paper explores the potential of adult education as a strategic tool for curbing insurgency in Nigeria. It investigates the nexus between illiteracy and insurgency, the thrusts of this paper lie in how literacy in its functional form can be deployed to power critical thinking skills productive capabilities, emotional intelligence and civic awareness in the recipients for the quest at identifying and resisting extremist ideologies. This study posits that functional literacy can serve as a panacea for effectively addressing all the indices of social inequalities that spur ideological cum religious extremism and radicalization. The paper concludes with significant recommendations, such as the establishment of functional and accessible literacy centers, provision of incentives for learners and educators, recruitment and training of professionally trained facilitators, and enhanced security for educational establishments irrespective of the status. The integration of adult literacy dimension into the anti-insurgency efforts, can assist Nigeria to foster peace, social stability, national security and economic growth.