IS UNEMPLOYMENT THE ROOT CAUSE OF INSECURITY IN NIGERIA?

Abstract

This study focuses on the relationship between unemployment and insecurity in Nigeria using historical and descriptive statistic. Unemployment in Nigeria is a major problem and is further worsened by a spike in the loss of jobs brought on by the current recession. Unemployment is the third biggest problem confronting the Nigeria economy with the exception of power and infrastructure. Over the years Nigeria has also experienced plethora of security challenges ranging from abduction, kidnapping, insurgency, etc. Looking at violent crimes and insecurity in general, it could not be unconnected to the extent of unemployment experienced in the country. It is believed that joblessness triggers frustration, anger and provides individuals with more time to commit crime, thereby fueling insecurity. Hence, the Nigerian government’s initiation of various programme to curb unemployment in the country. Some of the most recent youth economic empowerment initiatives such as the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Program (SURE-P) and Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YOUWIN), have not abated the rise in the rate of unemployment. This study found a link between unemployment and insecurity in Nigeria, it also found that the problem is exacerbated in an election year due to the thuggery and violence linked to elections