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Article Title:
The Nigerian Civil Conflict from 6th July, 1967 to 15th January, 1970 and its Effects on Women and Children
by Jacob Iorhen Yecho (PhD), Mrs. Yecho Elizabeth Ihugh (PhD)

Abstract:
The Nigerian Civil Conflict popularly known as the Nigerian Civil War or the Biafran War. Nigerian Civil War started on the 6th July, 1967 and ended on the 15th January, 1970. It was caused by the attempted secession of the southeastern provinces of Nigeria under the leadership of Lt. Col. Ojukwu. Some of the causes for this break-up are: The 15th January, 1966 coup, Maj. Gen. Ironsi?s miscalculated stabilization policy, the 29th July, 1966 counter-coup, the emergence of Gen. Gowon as Nigeria?s military leader and the refusal of Lt. Col. Ojukwu to acknowledge him as Nigeria?s Head of State. Some of the effects of the civil conflict on women and children were: They suffered from hunger, sexual abuse and harassment, forced migration, death, diseases etc. To protect women and children during and after war, the paper has proffered some recommendations. They are:There should be effective policies applicable by international participation of humanitarian disciplines and institutions specifically in protecting women and children in the camps and places of refuge that should be considered safe environment, provide psycho-social support for children and women stranded and displaced in any civil conflict. The paper concludes by asserting that war is terrific and a sucker of resources. It erodes human dignity, destroys and devastates mankind and property worth millions of naira. Thus, Nigerians should avoid the errors of the past and embrace peace.

Keywords: War, Conflict, Women, Children, Effects

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