Purpose: The security trials threatening the Nigerian state in this 21st century have disregarded any definite justification both from the government and private viewpoints. Unexpectedly these challenges are internally generated. Expressions like militant, insurgent and terrorist became a nearby impression in line with the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria where attacks on people, property and government infrastructures are Spartan. The challenge is that some of these groups’ aggressions have rare the peaceful co-existence of the society and the core value of the Nigerian state.
Methodology: This paper explores documentary analysis on the severity of attacks on the Nigerian state from the fourth republic with a key interest on the possibility of these attacks to lead to the balkanization of the country into different nations as suggested by viewers.
Findings: Terrorism is a global phenomenon. It is the use of violence and intimidation to coerce for various reasons. In recent times, the spate of terrorist attacks by various groups seeking political and religious reforms in Nigeria is alarming and has become worrisome as they pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s security. Furthermore, they are gradually destroying public confidence in the nation’s security system. Conditions which support the development and growth of terrorism in Nigeria range from socio-economic factors such as poverty to religion.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The paper argues that terrorism has adverse implications for Nigeria’s security. Socio-economic transformation, security and sensitization and collaboration among security agents among others are advocated as possible solutions to the menace.