article · EAS Journal of Humanities and Cultural Studies
Youth unemployment in Umuahia Urban, Abia State, is closely tied to an increase in criminal activities, particularly kidnapping. A quantitative survey of 400 respondents, including individuals aged 15 to 35, identifies the principal drivers of unemployment as a deficit of skills, scarce job opportunities, and insufficient government support. These economic pressures significantly contribute to young people taking part in kidnapping. The resulting rise in crime leads to heightened local insecurity, economic instability, and strained relationships between community members and law enforcement agencies. To counter these challenges, recommended interventions include establishing targeted vocational training programmes, expanding youth employment initiatives, and strengthening law enforcement strategies to improve regional safety and stability.
Widespread youth unemployment undermines urban security by driving vulnerable individuals towards violent crime such as kidnapping. Understanding the specific socio-economic conditions behind this link allows policymakers, civic leaders, and development agencies to address the root causes of criminality. Creating practical economic opportunities and improving vocational skills can help rebuild community safety and restore local economic stability.
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Youth unemployment has become a critical socio-economic challenge in Nigeria, particularly in urban areas like Umuahia, Abia State, where it is strongly linked to rising criminal activities, including kidnapping. This study investigates the impact of youth unemployment on the increasing rate of kidnapping and its effects on security in Umuahia Urban. The study was driven by the need to understand the root causes of youth involvement in kidnapping and to propose viable solutions to address both unemployment and crime rates. The research was guided by four objectives: identifying the socio-economic factors contributing to youth unemployment, examining the influence of unemployment on youth involvement in kidnapping, assessing the impact of youth-related kidnappings on the security of Umuahia Urban, and proposing strategies to reduce unemployment and curb kidnapping. The study employed quantitative surveys of 400 respondents including youths of age 15-35 years. The findings reveal that unemployment, driven by lack of skills, limited job opportunities, and inadequate government support, significantly contributes to youth involvement in kidnapping. The consequences of these criminal activities include increased insecurity, economic instability, and strained relations between communities and law enforcement. The study recommends implementing targeted vocational training programs, improving youth employment initiatives, and enhancing law enforcement strategies to reduce kidnapping rates and promote a more secure environment in Umuahia Urban.
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DOI: 10.36349/easjhcs.2025.v07i01.002
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