BANDITRY AND NIGERIA'S EXTERNAL IMAGE (2010-2023)

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper was to examine the effects that banditry has had on the external image of Nigeria. Banditry is quickly reaching alarming levels in Nigeria, to the point where it constitutes a severe security danger not only to the country's security but also to its image and reputation. The extent to which bandits operate within the terrain of Nigeria has resulted in a wave of kidnappings, mutilation of people, the loss of lives, population displacements, the loss of cattle, and the disruption of socioeconomic activities in general. The study relied on secondary sources of data. The findings showed that scarcely governed spaces, a high level of unemployment with attendant poverty, a weak security system, the porousness of Nigeria's borders, and the proliferation of arms, among other things, are the driving factors that are accelerating banditry in Nigeria. It recommended, among other things, that the government should adopt strategies and tactics that are more proactive in prosecuting the war against rural banditry; and create meaningful employment opportunities for the youths to address the pervasive and chronic poverty that exists throughout the country. In addition, the government should effectively monitor and secure our borders with the countries that are neighboring us to stop the illegal migration of people and the proliferation of arms. Keywords: banditry, kidnapping, Nigeria, unemployment, peace