ABSTRACT
This study examines the changing roles of traditional authorities in conflict resolution, security, and peacebuilding in the Katagum and Misau Emirate Councils in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The main goals are to ascertain the historical contributions of traditional leaders, examine factors that have contributed to their changing roles, and make policy recommendations to enhance the roles and efficiency of traditional authorities in security, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. Traditional authorities in Katagum and Misau Emirate Councils are like other similar emirate councils in Northern Nigeria. The reforms of 1976 rendered them powerless in legal terms. But despite these reforms, and the lack of support from the government, traditional authorities are increasingly relevant in the maintenance of peace, security, and peacebuilding in their domains. They have actively participated in peacebuilding initiatives at the local and state levels, helped to promote social cohesion, avert conflicts, and deal with their underlying causes. While legitimacy, local expertise, social capital, and capacity all play a part in how effective traditional authorities are in their tasks, political involvement, resource limitations, and the complexity of conflicts can also have an impact. The study's conclusion emphasizes the importance of appreciating and supporting the role of traditional authorities in security, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution.
