Abstract:
The Nigerian Civil Conflict popularly known as the Nigerian Civil War or the Biafran War, started
on the 6th July, 1967 and ended on the 15th January, 1970. It was caused by the attempted secession
of the southeastern provinces of Nigeria under the leadership of Lt. Col. Ojukwu. Other causes of the
war includes the 15th January, 1966 coup, Maj. Gen. Ironsi's miscalculated stabilization policy, the
29th July, 1966 counter-coup, the emergence of Gen. Gowon as military leader and the refusal of Lt.
Col. Ojukwu to acknowledge him as Nigeria's Head of State. Some of the effects of the civil conflict
on women and children were as follows: They suffered from hunger, death and diseases. To protect
women and children during and after war, this paper has some recommendations. One, there should
be effective policies applicable by international participation of humanitarian disciplines and
institutions specifically in protecting women and children in the camps and places of refuge that
should be considered safe environment. Two, provide psycho-social support for children and women
stranded and displaced in any civil conflict. The paper concludes by asserting that war is terrific and
a sucker of resources. It erodes human dignity, destroys and devastates mankind and property worth
millions of naira. Nigerians should avoid the errors of the past and embrace peace. |
