Socio-Economic Development and Insecurity in Nigeria: A Study of Boko Haram

Abstract

This paper explores the connection between socio-economic development and insecurity in Nigeria. Of particular significance to this paper is the link between economic decline (characterized by high rates of unemployment, low wages and income, corruption and injustice) and the proliferation of conflict particularly in the north-east. The data presented in this study show a relationship between insecurity challenges in the north-east and rates of poverty and unemployment in the zone. Furthermore, the study shows that despite increased spending by the government, the number of attacks and resulting casualties continued to rise between 2009 and 2017. In the final analysis, it is here argued that for proposed long term solutions to the insecurity situation in Nigeria to be effective, they must be predicated on the rule of law, protective of personal and political freedoms and equality, accountable and transparent and more importantly, in service of the common good.

Keywords: Insecurity, Socio-Economic Development, Boko Haram