Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi

SECURITY DYNAMICS IN NIGERIA'S NORTH-WEST REGION: EVALUATING THE EFFECTS OF ARMS TRAFFICKING ON RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND LIVELIHOODS IN KATSINA STATE

Abdulsalam, Mohammed Rilwan and Yusufu Ahmed Audu

Abstract

Nigeria's North-West region has become a hotspot of security concerns and Katsina State, nestled within Nigeria's North-West region faces a critical security challenge fueled by the rampant flow of illegal arms. This unfettered access to weapons has become a major impediment to rural development and the very livelihoods of the state's population. This study investigates the impact of arms trafficking on rural development and livelihoods in Nigeria's North- West region, focusing on Katsina State and anchored theoretically on Human Security Theory. Methodologically, it employs a survey research design utilizing Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Six Key Informants (KIs) were purposively selected from critical stakeholders such as public servants, community leaders, and farmers. Thematic analysis of KII data was conducted using Atlas.ti software, supplemented by secondary sources like scholarly literature, books, journals, and online resources. The findings highlight significant disruptions caused by arms trafficking in Katsina State, including undermined agricultural activities, loss of lives and livelihoods, internal displacement, disrupted business operations, and threats to peace and stability at state and regional levels. The study concludes that without prompt intervention, arms trafficking will continue to destabilize socio-economic stability, undermine agricultural productivity, escalate violence, and hinder sustainable development initiatives. Addressing these challenges necessitates enhancing border surveillance, equipping security forces with advanced weaponry through reforms, implementing economic development programmes to enhance livelihoods, raising public awareness about the adverse impacts of arms trafficking, and fostering dialogue and cooperation between border communities and security agencies. These strategies are crucial for effectively combating arms trafficking in Katsina State and the wider North-West region. .

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