The Rising Challenge Of Insecurity In Contemporary Nigeria

In the present-day Nigeria, insecurity is one of the most pressing challenges confronting the nation. It has become a controversial issue among citizens, scholars, and journalists because it has significantly hindered the peace of the people and the development of the country at large. Several lives, properties, and communities have been lost due to the high level of insecurity caused by bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers. Kidnapping, killing, and robbery continue to increase, creating fear in the minds of citizens and forcing many people to leave their homes in search of safer places. However, insecurity in contemporary Nigeria did not occur by accident; rather, it has been fueled by weak security structures and ineffective political leadership.

Insecurity undoubtedly creates fear, uncertainty, and a lack of protection for life and property. It destroys the political stability of a country and weakens its economic growth, social harmony, and overall development. Despite being blessed with abundant human and natural resources, which could contribute to strengthening its national security, Nigeria continues to grapple with various forms of insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, among others. These security challenges have negatively affected the nation’s development and the well-being of its citizens by contributing to economic inflation, mass unemployment, widespread poverty, and a rise in criminal activities.

Nigeria continues to face various forms of insecurity that threaten lives, property, and national development. These security challenges have become increasingly complex in recent years and have affected different parts of the country in different ways. One of the most serious forms of insecurity in Nigeria is terrorism and insurgency.

Terrorism and insurgency are among the most serious issues confronting Nigeria, particularly in the North-East. Groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter factions have carried out numerous attacks on civilians, military formations, schools, markets, and places of worship.

In recent years, these groups have continued to launch attacks in parts of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States. Villages have been raided, and many innocent civilians have been lost. Many communities, especially in Borno State, have experienced repeated attacks, forcing thousands of people into Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. The activities of these insurgents have disrupted education, agriculture, and economic activities in the region.

Kidnapping for ransom is another major form of insecurity in Nigeria. It has become one of the fastest-growing security challenges in the country. Criminal gangs abduct people and demand huge sums of money before releasing them.

In recent times, several incidents have occurred along major highways and within educational institutions. The abduction of students in states such as Kaduna and Niger, as well as other parts of North-Western Nigeria, attracted national attention. In 2024 and 2025, there were reports of mass kidnappings involving schoolchildren and residents of rural communities. One of the most tragic recent incidents was the kidnapping of students and teachers in Oyo State and the beheading of a school principal during a ransom-related attack. Travelers on highways connecting major cities have also fallen victim to kidnappers who operate from nearby forests. The increasing rate of kidnapping has created fear among citizens, causing many of them to abandon their homes in search of safer environments.

Armed robbery also remains a major threat to public safety. Robbers attack homes, shops, banks, and travelers, often using sophisticated weapons. Across many Nigerian cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, cases of armed robbery have been reported in residential areas and along highways. Students living off-campus in many universities have also become targets of armed robbers, especially at night. Some victims have been injured or killed while resisting attacks or attempting to protect their belongings. On 30 May 2026, a 200-level student of Lagos State University from the Department of History and International Studies was reportedly shot by armed robbers around his hostel area and later died after struggling for his life. Consequently, peace and security have become increasingly difficult to guarantee in many communities.

Furthermore, a combination of several factors has contributed to the persistence of insecurity in Nigeria. Poverty and unemployment remain major causes. The inability of many people, especially youths, to secure gainful employment has increased frustration and encouraged involvement in crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and cyber fraud. Corruption also contributes greatly to insecurity. Funds meant for public welfare and security are sometimes mismanaged, thereby weakening the government’s capacity to address security challenges effectively.

Poor governance, social inequality, and injustice have also fueled insecurity. When citizens feel marginalized or excluded from the benefits of governance, resentment and unrest may arise. Furthermore, porous borders facilitate the illegal movement of weapons and criminals into the country. Religious and ethnic tensions, political violence, and inadequate educational opportunities also play significant roles in aggravating insecurity.

Regarding the solutions, addressing insecurity in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. First, the government must prioritize job creation and poverty alleviation programmes to reduce the economic hardships that often drive people toward criminal activities.

Second, security agencies should be adequately funded, equipped, and trained to respond effectively to emerging security threats. Modern technology, including surveillance systems and intelligence networks, should be adopted to enhance security operations.

Third, corruption must be tackled decisively to ensure that resources allocated for security and development are utilized appropriately. Good governance, transparency, and accountability can help restore public trust and reduce grievances that fuel insecurity.

Additionally, educational opportunities should be expanded to promote literacy, critical thinking, and peaceful coexistence. Religious and community leaders should also encourage tolerance, dialogue, and unity among different groups. Citizens likewise have a role to play by cooperating with security agencies, reporting suspicious activities, and avoiding actions that could incite violence.

In conclusion, Nigeria is currently battling insecurity, which remains a major obstacle to national development and progress. Through effective governance, poverty reduction, youth empowerment, stronger security institutions, and active citizen participation, Nigeria can achieve lasting peace and create a safer environment for sustainable development. Security is not only the responsibility of the government but also a collective duty that requires the cooperation of all citizens.

Sauban Mahmud Bolaji writes from The Department of History And International Studies,

Lagos State University