Perceived Effectiveness of Community-based Peacebuilding Approaches in addressing Kidnapping in the South-South Nigeria

This study examined the perceived effectiveness of community-based peacebuilding approaches in addressing kidnapping in South-South Nigeria. The specific objectives were to assess the perceived effectiveness of community-based peacebuilding approaches in addressing kidnapping and identify the challenges affecting their implementation. The study was anchored on the Social Cohesion Theory, which emphasises trust, participation, shared identity, reciprocity, and collective responsibility as essential elements for effective peacebuilding. A survey research design was adopted, while data were collected from 369 adult residents selected from six cities across Edo, Delta and Bayelsa States using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics comprising frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that respondents generally perceived community-based peacebuilding approaches as effective in addressing kidnapping, with a grand mean of 3.72. Respondents particularly agreed that collaboration among residents improves security outcomes, enhances trust between residents and security agencies, and promotes the early identification of suspicious activities. The study also found that several factors constrain the effectiveness of these approaches, with a grand mean of 3.97. The major challenges identified were poor funding, fear of retaliation, lack of training for community peace actors, lack of trust among community members, poor communication, and political interference. The study concluded that although community-based peacebuilding approaches have significant potential to address kidnapping through collaboration, trust, and collective participation, their effectiveness depends on adequate institutional support, sustainable funding, effective communication, and continuous community engagement. The study recommended that government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community-based organisations should strengthen collaborative peacebuilding initiatives while providing adequate funding, regular capacity-building programmes, effective communication systems, and protection for community peace actors.