TERRORISM AND ITS EFFECT ON PUBLIC HEALTH AND SECURITY IN NIGERIA: THE SAUDI ARABIA COUNTER TERRORISM EXPERIENCE

Objective: This study examines the implications of terrorism for national security and public health in Nigeria, to evaluate the adequacy of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism legal framework and identify lessons from Saudi Arabia’s preventive and health-sensitive approach. Theoretical Framework: The study is grounded in security–public health nexus theory and preventive counter-terrorism theory, which emphasize the interdependence of security governance, legal regulation, and public health resilience in conflict-affected states. Method: A qualitative doctrinal research design was adopted, guided by the PRISMA framework. Data were collected through a systematic review of Nigerian and Saudi Arabian legislation, judicial decisions, policy documents, international reports, and relevant scholarly literature on terrorism, security, and public health governance. Results and Discussion: The findings reveal that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy remains largely militarized, with minimal legal coordination between security institutions and public health agencies. This gap has exacerbated health emergencies arising from displacement, trauma, and disruption of healthcare systems. In contrast, Saudi Arabia’s framework demonstrates an integrated model combining preventive legislation, centralized intelligence coordination, protection of critical health infrastructure, and rehabilitation-oriented deradicalization programs. Research Implications: The study highlights the need for Nigeria to adopt a unified legal and institutional framework that integrates counter-terrorism and public health preparedness, thereby strengthening national resilience. Originality/Value: This research contributes original comparative insight by linking counter-terrorism law with public health protection, offering a practical legal model adaptable to Nigeria’s context.