SOCIAL-ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF TRANS-BORDER CRIMES IN NIGERIA: 2015-2019

Abstract

The continuous surge in threats to global security especially orchestrated by trans-border - crimes such as money laundering, arms trafficking, drug trafficking and human trafficking, has given rise to a series of new discussions and strategic thinking among scholars and security experts. Nigeria is not an exception to these threats as it has, lately, been witnessing a handful of these palpable security challenges threatening its peaceful corporate existence and economic prosperity. This paper thus examined the dimensions of trans-border crimes and its socio-economic implications for Nigeria. The paper employed qualitative methodology, secondary data collection and descriptive method of analysis. The paper argues that global interconnectedness facilitates increase in trans-border crimes, especially in Nigeria where the unofficial/unmanned borders surpass the official/manned borders. Therefore, it is found that drug trafficking, arms trafficking, trafficking of persons, car smuggling and internet fraud are prevalent trans-border crimes in Nigeria. The socio-economic implications of trans-border crimes are mostly felt in fueling corruption, infiltrating businesses, hindering development and endangering lives and national security. Identifiable causes of increased trans-border crimes in Nigeria include porous borders, political corruption, and compromised security system. It is concluded that trans-border crimes pose serious national challenges that require multi track strategies and coordinated responses from the government, its agencies, transnational agencies, neighbouring governments and the citizens, to address. The paper, thus, recommended that to significantly minimize the menace of trans-border crimes in Nigeria, the government should adequately police the borders while the appropriate law enforcement officers must be well mobilized and equipped to so do.