Human Security and the Culture of Youth Violence in Nigeria

Mgr. Kingsley Emeka Ezemenaka

Doctoral thesis

Abstract:

Human security as a concept and an approach to solving the problems traditional security cannot solve in Nigeria in referent to non-absolute security is at its cradle stage and facing many challenges such as the socio-political situations of the Nigerian state. Although there have been researches on both human security and youth violence, few have studied human security through the lens of youth violence in Nigeria. Therefore, this research investigates the challenges of human security through the lens of youth violence.For this research a mixed methodological approach was adopted to aid a robust investigation. The mixed method comprises a qualitative and quantitative exploratory approach. Relative Deprivation was used as part of the framework of the research. The purposeful type of non-probability sampling technique was employed for selection of security professionals and authorities for the study. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered. In addition, a total of 4989 cases from a dataset concerning crime in Nigeria was used and a total of 17 interviews involving security scholars and practitioner in the Nigerian government sector from Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, National Defense College, Abuja, journalist on security issues from ThisDay Newspapers, one attorney, a former Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) and youths were conducted. Quantitative data was analysed using frequency distribution, cross-tabulation and chi-square at p>0.05, while qualitative data analysis was done based on content information gathered.The bulk of the respondents were youths ranging from educated to uneducated, employed to unemployed. The findings of the study revealed that in addressing human security issues, the problems associated with youth violence such as political, social as well as ethnic and religion related problems among many others can be addressed when issues concerning the Nigerian youths are prioritised through decentralisation of responsibilities/power of the federal government and regionalisation approaches to tackle the teething youth problems. Also, restructuring of governmental structures and policies for youth inclusiveness and participation in political matters is necessary. The method adopted for the study involving qualitative and quantitative were in accordance with the set-out objectives.The study, therefore, expresses that for human security to find a long and solid footing in Nigeria, issues concerning youth violence and development must be at the forefront of the Nigerian political structure and narratives, for the youth comprises the bulk of the population and also represent the future of the country. Otherwise, addressing human security with be futile.

Keywords

Human Security, Security, Youth, Violence, Nigeria

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 20. 5. 2020

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 29. 5. 2020
• Supervisor: Mgr. Jan Prouza, Ph.D.
• Reader: doc. PhDr. Jan Klíma, Kateřina Werkman

University of Hradec Králové

Faculty of Arts

Doctoral programme / field:
Political Science / African Studies