NOMADIC INFLUX AND RURAL BANDITRY IN NORTH-CENTRAL REGION OF NIGERIA: A TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTION, 2015 – 2024
Abstract
The North-Central region of Nigeria has experienced a significant increase in rural banditry, attributed mainly to nomadic influx and the resultant socio-economic conflicts. This study employed Routine Activity Theory to examine the intersection between nomadic movements and the rise in rural banditry, focusing on technological advancements, such as drone technology and the Global Positioning System (GPS), to mitigate these security challenges. The study adopted a mixed-methods research design, with a sample of 1200 respondents selected from 20 communities in Benue and Nasarawa States, and 16 key informant interviews were purposively selected. The instruments for data collection were questionnaires and key informant interviews. The quantitative data retrieved were analysed using simple linear regression, while the qualitative data were analysed through transcription. Results show a significant relationship between the deployment of drone technology and the Geographic Positioning System (GPS) and the control of rural banditry in Nigeria's North-Central Region. The study concludes that while technological interventions offer promising solutions, their success depends on sustained investment, capacity building, and the cooperation of all stakeholders. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on rural security in Nigeria by proposing practical and innovative approaches to counter the threats posed by rural banditry in the North-Central region.