Comparative Study of African and European Regional Systems for Human Rights Protection: Lessons for Africa and Security Implications of Boko Haram Insurgency on Nigeria-Niger Republic Diplomatic Relations

This research examines two interrelated dimensions of regional security and human rights in Africa: the comparative analysis of African and European human rights protection systems and the security implications of the Boko Haram insurgency on Nigeria-Niger diplomatic relations. The study reveals significant disparities between the African and European regional human rights mechanisms, with the European system demonstrating superior enforcement capacity, institutional coherence, and state compliance compared to its African counterpart. The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, despite its progressive normative framework incorporating civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, faces persistent implementation challenges including limited resources, political interference, and weak monitoring mechanisms. Concurrently, the Boko Haram insurgency has profoundly impacted Nigeria-Niger diplomatic relations since 2009, necessitating enhanced regional security cooperation through mechanisms such as the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). However, conflicting national interests, inadequate funding, and coordination challenges have undermined counterinsurgency effectiveness. The study employs qualitative research methodology, utilizing comparative analysis and document review to examine institutional frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and regional cooperation strategies. Findings indicate that Africa can learn valuable lessons from Europe's robust compliance monitoring, specialized institutions, and strong political will, while addressing unique contextual challenges. The research recommends strengthening African Union oversight mechanisms, enhancing MNJTF operational capacity, improving cross-border intelligence sharing, and fostering sustained political commitment to both human rights protection and regional security cooperation.