Paper short abstract:

This study investigates the BBOG movement's pathways in gender justice, the struggle for belonging, and negotiations within the context of fragility and violence in Nigeria. In Nigeria, challenges ranging from insecurity, spousal consent to inadequate funding by stakeholders will be addressed.

Paper long abstract:

The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 acknowledges the crucial role of women in fostering global peace, resolving community disputes, and managing cultural diversities. This study aims to underscore women's significant contributions to gender justice, dispute mediation, and resolution, particularly through peaceful protests. Historical struggles, such as the Women’s War in Nigeria, Cocoa Holdups in Ghana, Nyabinghi Movements in East and Central Africa, Mau Mau in Kenya, and liberation efforts against colonial rule, including anti-apartheid movements, have laid foundations for contemporary struggles for gender parity and negotiations in conflict-ridden states. Examining the "Bring Back Our Girls" (BBOG) movement in Nigeria as a case study, this research delves into its emergence in April 2014 following the abduction of 276 girls by Boko Haram. The BBOG movement, led by Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Vice President for Africa at the World Bank, has persisted for nine years, organizing public protests and building a sustained coalition of diverse stakeholders to press the government for the girls' return. This study investigates the BBOG movement's pathways in gender equality, the struggle for belonging, and negotiations within the context of fragility, conflict, and violence in Nigeria. It also examines the movement's achievements and challenges. In Nigeria, challenges ranging from insecurity, spousal consent to inadequate funding by stakeholders will be addressed. The research adopts content analysis of relevant literature, materials, pictures, and news reports to draw conclusions based on the researchers’ scope. Recommendations include advocating for legislative measures against violence towards women with defined penalties for perpetrators.