The Deficit of Human Security in Nigeria: The Youth Perspective

Abstract

Although the definition of human security is a topic of much debate, its initial use was most frequently cited in the 1994 Human Development Report (UNDP) with the emphasis on human security, UNDP has expanded the concept of security by defining human security as "protection from chronic threats such as hunger, disease and oppression" and "protection from sudden and harmful disturbances in everyday patterns". This moved away from the centralized approach that existed to encompass seven key distinct components: economic security, food security, health security, perimeter security, personal safety, community security and political security. Judging by the seven components of human security, the failure of the human security system in Nigeria is a major problem with many ripple effects. This has led to the emigration of young people into the country, and also worsened the already bad situation in Nigeria by causing a stronger brain drain effect and a lack of experience in the country. This chapter will focus on explaining concepts and identifying defective components. In addition, this section will look at the effects of a failed human security system and finally suggests practical solutions to those effects.