Youth Unemployment and Political Violence in Nigeria: Implications for National Security and Democratic Stability (2015–2025)

Abstract

Youth unemployment has remained one of the most persistent socio-economic and political challenges confronting Nigeria. Between 2015 and 2025, rising levels of unemployment, poverty, and youth marginalization contributed significantly to the escalation of political violence across various parts of the country. This study examines youth unemployment and political violence in Nigeria with particular focus on political thuggery, election violence, poverty, youth marginalization, and state failure. The study adopted State Failure Theory as its theoretical framework to explain how weak governance structures, poor economic opportunities, and institutional deficiencies create conditions that encourage political violence and insecurity. A qualitative research design was employed, relying on documentary analysis of scholarly literature, policy reports, government publications, and security studies. Findings revealed that widespread youth unemployment has created a large pool of economically vulnerable young people who are frequently recruited by political actors to engage in election violence, political thuggery, and other forms of insecurity. The study further revealed that poverty, governance failures, corruption, and weak state institutions have intensified youth frustration, social exclusion, and political instability. Evidence also showed that persistent political violence threatens democratic consolidation, weakens electoral integrity, and undermines national security. The study concludes that addressing youth unemployment requires comprehensive economic reforms, youth empowerment programmes, inclusive governance, and strengthened democratic institutions. It recommends sustained job creation initiatives, poverty reduction policies, skills acquisition programmes, and political reforms aimed at reducing youth vulnerability to political violence and strengthening democratic stability in Nigeria.