Influence of gender and religion on public perception of counter-terrorism efforts in Northeast Nigeria

This study examines the influence of gender and religion on public perception of counter-terrorism efforts in Northeast Nigeria, a region grappling with persistent terrorism and its devastating impact on communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study investigates whether gender and religious affiliations shape public opinions on counter-terrorism strategies. Finding from the study revealed that there is no significant difference between males and females in their perception on the influence of terrorism in the North Eastern Nigeria. The study also submitted that there is a statistically significant difference between Christians and Muslims in their perception on the influence of terrorism in the North Eastern Nigeria. Based on the finding the study therefore recommended that Northeastern government should address socioeconomic issues of poverty, unemployment, and lack of education that both genders identify as root causes of terrorism, to reduce vulnerability to radicalization, while ensuring trauma and rehabilitation programs for victims of terrorism are accessible to both men and women without bias. The study also opines that government and faith-based institutions should highlight common socioeconomic challenges; poverty, displacement, and unemployment faced by both Christians and Muslims as a unifying factor, as such will counter extremist narratives, and advocate for cooperation with security agencies.