The State and Security Management in Nigeria: A Study of Anambra State, 2014-2022

Security is a major issue in the governance of any state and hence the success of any administration is usually measured in terms of her ability to adequately manage the security situations in such a state. The study examined the state and security management in Anambra State between 2014 and 2020. The study is qualitative in nature as data collection was based on the secondary sources of data, while the Social Contract Theory was judiciously utilized as the framework of analysis. Based on this, the study revealed that; poor equipment’s amongst other factors are challenges that impeded proper security management in Anambra State under Governor Willie Obiano’s administration; again, the study showed that there has been a systematic approach towards addressing security challenges in the state by government. The efforts being made by the state agencies to curb the menace of insecurity of all kinds are synchronized though not very effective. From the findings, the study recommended that; first, the government should make sure that its policies are implemented effectively. It is not enough to make good policies while implementing it is a problem. Government must realize that it has a limited time and should therefore use it effectively. Secondly, government agencies like the National Orientation Agency (NOA) should be made to be functional in carrying out their responsibilities. Here, government can partner with the civil society in enlightening citizens on government programmes. The citizens on their part are expected to play roles that will complement government efforts. The citizens need to be more security conscious. Citizens should be sensitized and mobilized from time to time, to fulfil their civic obligations. They should be law-abiding, pay their taxes and other dues correctly and promptly. Citizens should be courageous to criticize or engage the government constructively. In doing this, public facilities and projects should be properly maintained and sustained, and both government and the citizens have roles to play to achieve this.