Challenges and Opportunities in Addressing Armed Banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest: Insights from the Field

Abstract

In recent years, the escalation of armed banditry in the northwestern region of Nigeria has reached alarming proportions, leading to significant loss of life and extensive property damage amounting to billions of Naira. While numerous studies have delved into the causes and repercussions of this crisis, there remains a notable gap in addressing the challenges and opportunities inherent in combating this menace. This paper diverges from existing research by conducting an analytical examination of the obstacles and prospects involved in mitigating the issue. Drawing upon fieldwork conducted in Katsina and Zamfara states, it sheds light on grassroots perspectives, emphasizing the crucial role of local communities in the broader efforts to counter armed banditry in northwestern Nigeria. The study underscores the necessity of integrating affected populations into comprehensive strategies aimed at curbing the menace. Ultimately, it advocates for urgent and coordinated action by both national and state governments to address the underlying causes of the crisis.