DU JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT & SOCIAL SCIENCES

• Evaristus Kanayochi AKOMA

  Dominion University, Ibadan

  Author

Youth unemployment is a widespread issue in Nigeria, particularly in urban areas like Ibadan. Previous studies have largely focused on its economic consequences and general relationship with crime at the national level; limited scholarly attention has been paid to its specific implications for peacebuilding and community security in rapidly urbanised areas. This study therefore investigates the causes of youth unemployment, its effects, and peacebuilding initiatives in addressing these challenges. The study is significant due to its potential to promote community stability in the Ibadan metropolis, Oyo State. The study is grounded in Galtung’s Structural Violence Theory and uses a qualitative exploratory case study design. Primary data were obtained from 32 participants: 17 key informants (government officials, security personnel, community leaders, and NGO representatives) and 15 unemployed or underemployed youths across five LGAs. Data were analysed using thematic and narrative techniques. Findings revealed that limited education, economic exclusion, and population growth drive youth unemployment, contributing to rising crime such as theft, armed robbery, cybercrime, and cultism, which undermines community stability. Findings further deepen our understanding that inclusive economic policies, vocational training, and community engagement emerged as effective peacebuilding strategies. The paper argues that unemployment affects the lives, aspirations, and involvement of youths in insecurity. It concludes that urgent action is needed to support multifaceted interventions to enhance education, skills development, public-private job creation, and targeted programs to address structural unemployment. The study also recommends targeted interventions to reduce insecurity, empower youth, and foster sustainable peace.

1. Evaristus Kanayochi AKOMA, Dominion University, Ibadan

   Department of Criminology and Security Studies, Dominion University, Ibadan

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