Looking Beyond Conflict: The Involvement of Tiv Diaspora in Peacebuilding in Nigeria

Abstract

Examining the role of transnational migrant groups in peace processes is a particular area of field research within the broad area of studies on migration. This article examines the contribution of diaspora of the Tiv ethnic group in the USA to peacebuilding in Nigeria and argues that, contrary to recent findings in the literature that African diaspora had a negative impact on peace processes, the Tiv diaspora actively engaged all the conflicting parties in an attempt to ensure sustained peace and wider democratisation of power. They were mobilised as a result of the military massacre of two hundred unarmed Tiv civilians in their homeland. The initially weak ties of the Tiv diaspora with their home country have been strengthened, with the propensity to actively participate there. Despite their track record in peace processes, a weak social, economic and political position, as well as capacity constraints, may frustrate their efforts towards an enduring and sustainable peace.