Youth Unemployment and Terrorism in Nigeria: The Case of “Boko Haram”

Abstract

The increasing social vices in Nigeria such as kidnapping, armed robbery, political thuggery and terrorism are indicators of a national doom. Kidnappings are done for ransom from the victims, while armed robbery, political thuggery, and terrorism are engaged for financial gains and selfish interest. These criminal activities negatively affect the peace, security, and development of the nation. This study examines the relationship between youth unemployment and Boko Haram terrorism in Nigeria. This study relies on secondary data and adopted the frustration-aggression theory as its theoretical framework. The study revealed that high rate of youth unemployment in northeast Nigeria has provided foot soldiers for the Boko Haram elites. More so, available data show youth unemployment rate in Nigeria is so high, and these criminal engagements are attributed to it. As a way forward, the study recommends amongst others that, the Nigerian government should identify the causes of youth unemployment and intensify efforts at youth unemployment reduction as such efforts will reduce poverty and take care of other needs of the youths.