Government Takes Action to Combat Illicit Economies and Instability for Sustainable Development
The federal government is currently taking significant measures to address the increasing threat of illicit economies and instability in various regions of the country, with the goal of achieving peace and sustainable development. Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Director General of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), made this announcement during the inauguration of the National Working Group on illicit economies and instability in the country, which took place in Abuja on Tuesday.
The collaboration between IPCR and the Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime (GI-TOC) has led to the development of strategies to combat the pervasive issue of illicit economies in Nigeria. Dr. Ochogwu underscored the profound impact of illicit economies on instability and insecurity, citing examples in the North-West where cattle rustling, kidnapping, illegal mining, and banditry have contributed to escalating insecurity in the region.
Furthermore, the sub-regional criminal economy of Boko Haram in the northeast, along with cattle rustling, kidnapping, banditry, and illegal mining in the North-Central, serve as additional examples of the detrimental effects of illicit economies on Nigerian society. Additionally, the South-West has been grappling with smuggling, illegal mining, and fraudulent activities, while the South-South and South-East contend with illegal oil refining, separatist agitations, and other illicit activities.
Illicit economies have not only undermined core norms and values, but they have also violated human rights, jeopardized environmental sustainability, fostered criminal enclaves and ecosystems, and contributed to the overall humanitarian burden in the country. Dr. Ochogwu emphasized that the prevalence of illicit economies is exacerbated by governance challenges, economic decline, porous borders, ethnic divisions, inequality, climate change, high youth unemployment, and the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.
In response to this urgent issue, stakeholders actively involved in addressing illicit economies and their impact on local communities and the broader society in Nigeria have been brought together to share knowledge and experiences. The ultimate goal is to enhance collective expertise and capacity, establish sustainable multi-stakeholder coalitions, and implement evidence-based responses to criminal markets.
Dr. Kingsley Madueke, the Nigerian Research Coordinator of GI-TOC, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing illicit economies and instability, highlighting that the focus should not solely be on military intervention. He stressed the importance of addressing unemployment as a recruitment ground for illicit economies, stating that development-oriented responses, particularly in local communities, are essential.
This collaborative effort represents a crucial step towards mitigating the pervasive impact of illicit economies and instability in Nigeria. By involving major stakeholders and implementing comprehensive strategies, the government aims to curb the sources of insecurity and foster sustainable development across the country.
In conclusion, the government’s commitment to tackling illicit economies and instability is a vital component of its efforts to promote peace, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians. It is imperative that these strategies are pursued with determination and resolve to mitigate the far-reaching impact of illicit economies and instability on the nation.
