Exploring the Barriers to Human Insecurity in North-East Nigeria (2019-2023)

Abstract

This study examines the barriers to human security in Northeast Nigeria, highlighting the threats faced by the population, including food insecurity, crimes, terrorism, organized crime, poverty, environmental factors, and violent crimes such as the Boko Haram insurgency between 20019 and 2023. The primary objective of this article is to identify the barriers to human security. To achieve this, a qualitative methodology was employed, utilizing secondary data sources and discourse analysis to discuss the findings. The findings indicate that economic, health, environmental, personal, community, and political insecurities are prevalent in the study area. For instance, individuals and households lack access to basic income, including
salaries, wages, public funds, and adequate food. The findings reveal that poverty, hunger, social injustice, and income inequalities significantly affect the population. Additionally, increased cases of physical injuries, trauma, and death are common during conflicts. Forced displacement leads to people living in camps with inadequate basic human needs, such as clean water, sanitation, shelter, food, and medications. Ecological destruction threatens humanity, leading to resource scarcity and loss of livelihoods. The study recommends that policymakers urgently adopt a multifaceted approach involving regional cooperation, community involvement, and regulatory reforms to address these obstacles.