Manuscript Title:

EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF COMMUNITY POLICING ON CRIME REDUCTION AND SECURITY IN NIGERIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Author:

ISIAKA SALIHU ONIMAJESIN, ROZITA BINTI ABDUL MUTALIB, SAKINAH BINTI MUSLIM

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.12684799

Published : 2024-07-10

About the author(s)

1. ISIAKA SALIHU ONIMAJESIN - School of Government, COLGIS, UUM.
2. ROZITA BINTI ABDUL MUTALIB - PhD, School of Government, COLGIS, UUM.
3. SAKINAH BINTI MUSLIM - PhD, School of Government, COLGIS, UUM.

Full Text : PDF

Abstract

Nigeria has been grappling with security challenges for several years, the country is plagued with high rate of crime and insecurity, ranging from terrorism, kidnapping, and armed banditry to cybercrimes. The teeming unemployed youths, high poverty rate, corruption, tribalism, and nepotism are some of the factors contributing to the high rate of crime and insecurity in Nigeria. The Nigerian government and other stakeholders have intensified efforts to address this problem. This study critically evaluates the effectiveness of community policing in mitigating crime and insecurity in Nigeria, emphasizing its broader implications for community development. Utilizing the qualitative method through interviews with community members, law enforcement officials, and stakeholders, coupled with a descriptive analysis of their views on crime before and after the implementation of community policing strategies. Findings revealed positive correlation between the adoption of community policing and reduction in crime rates. Qualitative insights underscore the improvement in trust and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities, fostering a proactive and participatory approach to public safety. Furthermore, the study explores the multifaceted implications of effective community policing on community development. Beyond crime reduction, the research highlights enhanced community engagement, social cohesion, and the creation of a conducive environment for economic activities. These positive outcomes suggest that community policing not only addresses immediate security concerns but also plays pivotal role in fostering sustainable community development. This assessment contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence of the effectiveness of community policing in the Nigerian context. The implications for community development underscore the importance of incorporating community-oriented policing strategies into national security frameworks, emphasizing the need for sustained investments in training, resources, and community outreach initiatives. Policymakers and law enforcement agencies can leverage these findings to formulate informed strategies aimed at fostering safer and more resilient communities across Nigeria.


Keywords

Community Policing, Crime, Insecurity, Nigeria, Police.