Effective Strategies in Minimising Crime Rate Amongst the Youth in Nigeria

 

Crime rate among Nigerian youths has clearly assumed a worrisome dimension today.If the current alarming crime rate among these youths is allowed to continue unhampered, the future of Nigeria and its productive army is clearly on the path of destruction. 

The nature of these crimes includes armed robbery, murder, rape, car theft, burglary, fraud, bribery and corruption, food and drug adulteration, gambling, smuggling, human trafficking, kidnapping, drug trafficking, money laundering, internet scam, advanced fee fraud (419), prostitution and other illegal activities. They are driven by the selfish desire to own exotic cars, wear expensive clothes, unhealthy peer pressure and influences, idleness, laziness, clubbing, indulging in extreme quantities alcoholic beverages, and so many other non self development or business investment ventures.

 However if effective strategies are put in place, this dilemma can be faced out or minimised. Some of the strategies discussed here if effectively carried out could help curb the menace of crime rates in Nigeria.

 Knowledge they say is power; Proper sensitization of crimes and the adverse effects on the individuals as well and the society at large should be considered. Knowing that these activities are illegal, inhuman, negative and vile is not enough, they should also be properly educated on the consequences ills and damages it brings to the perpetrators and the society at large. 

Unfortunately but quite sad, the problem of Unemployment in Nigeria can be identified as one major factor facilitating the increase of crime rates among the youths. Employment opportunities should be made available to meet up the large unemployment rate in Nigeria.

 Most youths are frustrated from unavailability of job opportunities. Especially the thousands of graduates who are out in the labour market. Frustration in the boat of idleness could make youths swim in the ocean of crimes or illegal activities.

 In addition, a country with so many resources with bad governance has its economy heading for the rock .The importance of good governance in a country can not be overemphasized. 

When there is good governance with responsible and upright leaders who are patriotic and are determined to make their leadership count, crime rates will be reduced as the youths or young adults will be more inspired and willing to emulate good conducts. 

In a country where there's is lack of fairness and transparency in governance, young adults may see no reason to uphold the integrity of the nation. Good governance will also allow for a healthy economy with provision of social amenities, and opportunities created for young adults to explore and use to their advantage and that of the society at large.

A country where justice is not compromised, where corruption is sternly not encouraged will have minimal crime rates. Law breakers and offenders should be punished duly and according to the law.

 Rigid punishments should be put in place and carried out accordingly, when this system is effective in the country, youths will be largely discouraged to commit crimes because of the consequences and wrath of the law. Justice should be the song of the Nation and not corruption where law breakers bribe their way out of their supposed punishments.

 Other ways in which crime rates among youths in Nigeria can be minimised are provision of good education, Moral conducts and acceptable societal behaviors should be emphasized in homes and schools, Free empowerment and skills acquisition forums by the government.   

  

Ukeko John Ajirioghene

Industrial chemistry

OS/21A/0382