Human Security and Socio-Economic Development Challenges Amid Covid-19 in Nigeria

Muhammad Abdullahi, Baba K. Bukar & Mudi Bashir

Download article picture_as_pdf

Abstract

The global outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) led to a global public health emergency, which saw many governments introducing coping and mitigating strategies like quarantine, contact tracing, social distancing, physical distancing, isolation, panic buying, emergency flights, evacuation, stock-up, lockdown, community transmission, new normal, and staying safe, among others. While these strategies worked in some countries, they vehemently failed in others due to their unsuitability and prior existing challenges that necessitated adequate response before the measures. Against this backdrop, this paper examined the challenges of human security and socioeconomic development during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The paper was based on Relative Deprivation Theory and utilized qualitative methodology with a desk review of literature a methodology. It revealed that bad governance led to poor socio-economic standing of citizens in Nigeria, which further fuelled the various crises (protests, militancy, insurgency, criminality) that were complemented by COVID-19 preventive measures (border closure, lockdown, movement restrictions). It further revealed that business operations were significantly affected by cases of halting, rise in prices, distortion in the supply chain, etc. The study concluded that until bad governance is addressed, and good governance is instituted, the country’s daunting insecurity and socioeconomic challenges can never be addressed. It was recommended therefore that governments must be serious with governance and ensure the appropriate and adequate provision of opportunities capable of addressing the basic needs of people despite the global outbreak of COVID-19.

Authors

Read more