Bonaventure Chia

I completed my PhD in the School of Philosophy, Religion, and History of Science at the University of Leeds in 2024. My thesis is titled “Deradicalisation as Religious Intervention: Assessing the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Former Boko Haram Members in Nigeria.” My thesis provides a comprehensive analysis of how deradicalisation is contextualised and implemented as a Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) strategy to tackle the issue of Boko Haram in Nigeria. The study focuses on three major deradicalisation programmes as case studies: the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC), and the Yellow Ribbon Initiative. My research included interviews with former Boko Haram members and deradicalisation experts. This methodological approach enabled me to provide a nuanced and critical evaluation of the effectiveness of these programmes.

The findings of my thesis offer practical and valuable insights that could influence discussions among academics, policymakers, and security agencies, ultimately enhancing a more effective and sustainable approach to deradicalisation in Nigeria and beyond. For instance, the findings have the potential to assist the Nigerian government in evaluating its deradicalisation interventions, thereby enhancing its strategies to combat violent extremism and terrorism. Furthermore, my methodology, which incorporates interviews with former members and deradicalisation experts, introduces valuable empirical evidence that significantly enriches the global discourse on the deradicalisation process. This approach not only contributes to addressing the methodological challenges associated with studying radicalisation and terrorism but also has broader implications on a global scale. By disseminating practical strategies and insights derived from the Nigerian experience, other nations facing similar challenges may adapt their strategies for more effective outcomes, thus contributing to the collective global effort against radicalisation and terrorism.

Prior to embarking on my PhD research at the University of Leeds, I obtained a Master of Arts (MA) in Religious Studies and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religion and Philosophy from Benue State University in Makurdi, Nigeria. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am a lecturer at the Federal College of Education in Ehaamufu, Enugu, Nigeria, (2015-present).

As a LAHRI Postdoctoral Fellow, I plan to develop my thesis into a monograph and actively pursue opportunities for postdoctoral fundings and grants to support my research initiatives.

Publications

PhD thesis

Chia, B. A.  (2024) Deradicalisation as Religious Intervention: Assessing the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Former Boko Haram Members in Nigeria. PhD thesis, University of Leeds

Journal article

Chia, B.A. (2018) Human trafficking in Nigeria and its effects on the national Image: A Moral Appraisal. Igwebuike: An African Journal of Arts and Humanities. 4 (2) pp. 1-16.

Book review

Chia, B. (2023). Review of Rage and Carnage in the Name of God Religious Violence in Nigeria by A. Alao. Reading Religions

Chia, B. (2022). Review of The Boko Haram Insurgence in Nigeria Perspectives from Within by E. E. Anugwom, Reading Religions

Conferences and Presentations

2025

Chia, B. Exploring the Perspectives of Former Boko Haram Members on the OPSC Deradicalisation in Nigeria: An Evaluation of the Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Canadian Association for African Studies Conference. 3-6 June, Toronto Canada

Chia, B.  Climate Change and Violent Extremism in Northern Nigeria: Understanding the Causal Link. CAS Annual Conference. 24-25 April, Edinburgh.

2024

Chia, B. OPSC Deradicalisation Programme: Creating a Future for Former Boko Haram Members in Nigeria? African Association for the Study of Religions Conference.10-11 April. Abuja.

2022

Chia, B. A.  Deradicalisation as A Political Theology: The Contestations over Islam in Northern Nigeria. Centre for Liberation Theologies, Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies KU Leuven Conference. 3-5 November. Leuven

2018

Chia, B. A. The role of Christianity in resolving farmers/herders Conflicts in Makurdi/Guma LGAs of Benue State. Faculty of Arts, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria Conference. 15-17 August. Makurdi.