Security and Economic Development in Nigeria: A Leadership Perspective

Abstract

This paper critically examined the impact of insecurity on the economic development of Nigeria. Specifically, it established the implications of insecurity on economic growth and development of Nigeria. The study utilized secondary data on security challenges in the country. It was found that Nigeria has a history of ineffective leadership reflected in poor governance. It is argued that this is due to the leaders’ inability to proffer and implement lasting solutions to problems of corruption, ethnic clashes, religious violence, unemployment rate, poor education and so on. The resultant effects have been loss of lives and properties, poverty, and economic backwardness. The paper identifies effective leadership and governance as non-negotiable instruments of change. Recommendations for the improvement of the leadership strength of Nigeria were also suggested.