Insecurity during COVID-19 Pandemic: Policy Gaps and Prospects for Inclusive Security Outfits in Nigeria

Abstract

Many countries across the planet are facing unprecedented challenges because of COVID-19 infections and Nigeria inclusive. Although the 1999 constitution of Nigeria clearly states that security and welfare of the citizens are the primary purposes of government, the COVID-19 situation in Nigeria has exposed the government's attitude towards insecurity ravaging the country. Against this backdrop, this study focused on insecurity during COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria to ascertain the policy gaps and prospects for inclusive security outfits. The study was anchored on institutional theory. Data for the study were drawn from participant observation and authentic secondary sources. The study identified that Nigeria has been held hostage by criminality of bandits, kidnappers, protests, etc. The study recommended among others that government should take advantage of the recent security loopholes in the country to establish a state police. This will lead to significant improvement in police service delivery.

Citation

Ugwuibe, C.O., Onah, F.N. and Jennifer, E.I. (2022), "Insecurity during COVID-19 Pandemic: Policy Gaps and Prospects for Inclusive Security Outfits in Nigeria", Osabuohien, E., Odularu, G., Ufua, D. and Osabohien, R. (Ed.) COVID-19 in the African Continent, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 47-59. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80117-686-620221005