An Evaluation of Women’s Contributions to Conflict Resolution in Nasarawa State, 1996–2024

Abstract

This study looked at the impact and challenges of women contributions to conflict resolution in Nasarawa State between 1996 and 2024, with emphasis on their roles in promoting peace, reconciliation, mediation, and post-conflict recovery across communities affected by communal, ethnic, religious, and farmer-herder conflicts. Since the creation of Nasarawa State in 1996, recurring conflicts have threatened social cohesion and sustainable development, yet women have remained indispensable actors in both formal and informal peacebuilding processes despite receiving limited scholarly and policy recognition. The study examines the strategies employed by women's groups, traditional female institutions, faith-based organizations, community associations, and civil society organizations in preventing violence, facilitating dialogue, supporting displaced persons, and rebuilding trust among conflicting communities. The research adopts the historical methodology, utilizing primary sources through oral interviews, alongside secondary sources including books, journal articles, government documents, and reports. Findings reveal that women made significant contributions through grassroots mediation, humanitarian assistance, advocacy, early warning mechanisms, and peace education, thereby fostering community resilience and social stability. However, their effectiveness was constrained by patriarchal norms, inadequate representation in formal peace structures, limited funding, insecurity, and weak institutional support. The study concludes that strengthening women's inclusion in conflict resolution mechanisms and public decision-making is essential for achieving sustainable peace and security in Nasarawa State.