Perspectives of Government's Policies on Rural Security in Nigeria: Implications for Rural Livelihood

This study examined policy measures adopted to address rural insecurity in Nigeria, given the high incidences of farmers-herders conflict, banditry, kidnapping, that have led to the loss of lives, and livelihoods, with millions of families displaced. Rural insecurity threatens the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals that are targeted at addressing hunger and food security and ensuring peace, justice, and strong institutions in Nigeria. Policy measures of the government have not been very successful given the increasing spate of insecurity that has continued to undermine the socio-economic development of rural areas. Hence, this study examined the state of rural insecurity, its drivers and effects on livelihoods, adopted policy measures, the gaps in the measures, and alternatives that could be leveraged toward sustaining lives and livelihoods in rural areas in Nigeria. This study used documentary analysis, with data sourced from publications, journals, the internet, and personal observation. It revealed that porous borders and ungoverned forests contribute to rural insecurity and concluded that adopted policy measures have not been effective, given the dynamics of rural crime. It recommended that the community policing model should be adopted as a better prospect for securing rural lives and livelihoods in Nigeria.