ARMED BANDITRY AND CHALLENGES OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF KOGI STATE

ABSTRACT This study examines Armed Banditry and Challenges of National Development in Nigeria: A Study of Kogi State. The study was guided by three objectives which are to examine the factors contributing to the rise of armed banditry in Kogi State, identify its impact on economic development and social stability and to recommend possible strategies for curbing the menace. The study is Anchored on the Frustration-Aggression Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected using a 20-item structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 150 respondents. Analytical tools such as mean rating and chi-square were employed to analyze the responses. Findings revealed that economic hardship and high unemployment are primary drivers of armed banditry in Kogi State. Additionally, competition over land and natural resources especially between farmers and herders—combined with weak governance and ineffective law enforcement, further exacerbate the situation. These factors contribute to insecurity, disrupt local economies, and erode social stability. Armed banditry was found to negatively affect economic activities, leading to business closures, loss of livelihoods, and reduced investment in the region. The agricultural sector, a key part of Kogi State’s economy, is particularly vulnerable, with food insecurity becoming a growing concern. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening security operations, improving law enforcement capacity, and promoting community policing as effective measures to restore peace and foster sustainable development in Kogi State and Nigeria at large.