The Cost and Socio-Economic Implication of terrorism in Nigeria

a Focus on Boko Haram

Abstract

The World has been entangled in a continuous destruction of lives and properties by terrorist groups such as ISIS, Al-Qeada, Boko-Haram etc. Their activities have impinged on socio-economic and political development of countries affected. The current surged of Boko-Haram activities in Nigeria has caused untold hardship, claimed lives of combatants and non-combatants citizens, crippled economic activities, and properties worth billions of naira destroyed. The paper examines the cost and socio-economic implication of terrorist activities of Boko-Haram sect in Nigeria. The paper relied on secondary sources of data collection. Data collected was analysized using descriptive statistical method and content analysis. The paper is anchored on conflict theory as theoretical framework of analysis. The paper argues that Boko Haram is driven by an internal struggle within the Muslim leadership in northern Nigeria. It activities are consequence of power marginalization and exclusion, and their self-declared goal of establishing a sharia state as an attempt to alter the power structure. The paper reveals that Nigeria has lost billions of naira, manpower both young and old, increase number of IDP camps, increased numbers impaired soldiers and high rate of poverty. The paper further shows that, economic activities in Nigeria have been crippled thereby are reducing the number of foreign and local investors in the region and Nigeria in general. It also shows that monies might for development of the nation has been channeled in procurement of weapons to fight the terrorist group. The paper conclude that failure to address the socioeconomic issues prevalent in those states where the activities are prevalent will undermine the effect of other counterterrorism policies adopted in Nigeria. The paper therefore, recommends that, there should be joint military efforts by the neighbouring countries to flush out boko-haram members.