Impact of Poverty on Nigerian Youths and Security Dilemma: A Theoretical Approach

Abstract:

The paper examines the impact of poverty on Nigerian youths and security dilemma, having a theoretical linkage. It also analyses the political process of Nigeria and how it manipulates the youths in contributing to insecurity. With the aid of historical-descriptive research from the secondary methodology, findings show that since independence, Nigerian politics has been characterized by various forms of violence such as ballot snatching, thuggery, bloodshed and assassination. The level poverty has also created extremist and terrorist groups, some with religious coloration and some with ethnic and regional affiliations. This in most cases has led to a condition of insecurity. In all the violence that surrounds Nigerian politics, poverty and youth linkage is the root cause, because youths are the perpetrators of every violent political act in Nigeria as influenced by the political predators. The paper concludes that Poverty is believed to be the root cause of all violence especially in a society where youths population is significant. Nigeria has been engulfed at different intervals by political, religious and ethnic conflicts engendered as a result of poor youths’ handling where they are swayed by little cash and drugs. This menace cannot abate without a greater youth empowerment, education and drastic national orientation. The paper recommends that massive employment opportunities be provided, the inflow of foreign direct investment be promoted and constant workshops, seminars, conferences should be periodically organized for religious and political elites to acquaint them with current and usable information on how to curb the menace of youths’ poverty and insecurity in Nigeria.