Al-Hikmah University Journal

The military has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria's political trajectory and security dynamics over its history. This paper examines the multifaceted influence of the Nigerian military from colonial origins to contemporary times, highlighting its impact on governance, stability, and national security. Drawing from a comprehensive review of literature, both published and unpublished, this study analyzes key historical events such as military coups, transitions to civilian rule, and the military's role in managing internal security threats. It explores the complexities of civil-military relations, emphasizing challenges such as human rights abuses and the balance of power between civilian authorities and military leadership. Furthermore, the paper addresses contemporary security challenges including insurgency, ethnic conflicts, and regional instability, where the military's interventions have been critical. The study advocates for a nuanced understanding of the military's role, proposing strategies to enhance its effectiveness in promoting democratic governance and sustainable security practices. By contextualizing these issues within theoretical frameworks of civil-military relations and security studies, this paper provides insights into how Nigeria can navigate its future political evolution while ensuring robust national security frameworks.