Abstract
This study examines the role of Kanuri language in development communication for peacebuilding and countering Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria. Drawing on participatory development communication theory, the study explores how traditional and Islamic leaders employ indigenous language to enhance the credibility, acceptance, and effectiveness of peace messages within conflict-affected communities. A qualitative case study design was adopted, using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document review to generate data from traditional leaders, Islamic leaders, and Kanuri-speaking community members. Data were analysedthematically. The findings reveal that the use of Kanuri language strengthens trust, reinforces cultural and religious legitimacy, and facilitates participatory dialogue between leaders and community members. Traditional leaders use Kanuri to frame peace narratives around cultural norms and collective responsibility, while Islamic leaders employ it to counter extremist religious interpretations and promote peaceful understandings of Islam. The study further finds that indigenous language communication fosters community ownership of peacebuilding initiatives and enhances resilience against extremist recruitment. It concludes that peacebuilding policies and interventions in Borno State and similar contexts are more effective when they integrate local language, culturally legitimate leadership, and participatory communication approaches.
Keywords: Boko Haram insurgency;
Development communication; Indigenous language; Kanuri language; Peacebuilding
DOI: 10.36349/sojolics.2026.v02i02.045
author/Mohammed, A., &Arzika, S.
journal/Sokoto JOLICS 2(2) | August 2026 |
