Overview of Banditry in Nigeria: Implication for Youth Development

Scholars contend that youth involvement in conflicts and banditry threatens many developing nations’ economic, political and social security which is a significant element associated with underdevelopment. It depresses local and foreign investments, decreases the quality of life, rescinds human and social capital and damages relationships among citizens and the states; thus, discouraging democracy, the rule of law and the capability of the country to uphold development. No doubt, the impact of youth involvement in conflicts can be shocking, especially for crimes such as armed banditry which takes a toll on their victims, both in material and other losses, as well as, in social and psychological terms. These could be interpreted as material losses, physical injury or death, social fear, restrictions on freedom of movement and even the psychological fear of potential ill-treatment. Considering the high prevalence of banditry among youths in Nigeria, this paper aimed to examine the predisposing factors to banditry as well as its effect on youth development in the country.

Keywords: Banditry, Nigeria, Implication, Youth and Development.