The Role of Agricultural Economy Cooperative Societies in Combating Insecurity in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the role of agricultural cooperative societies in combatting the menace of insecurity in Nigeria. The country is recently grappled with various forms of crimes and violence such as terrorism, armed banditry, and ethnic conflict among others. Therefore, the widespread of violence and insecurity in the country has negatively affected social and economic growth of the country. The insecurity has severely disrupted the livelihoods of Nigerians mainly the rural dwellers, it eroded trust among different Nigerian communities, and has exacerbated extreme poverty in the country. Against, this background, this study highlights the ways the cooperative societies in the country can contribute in enhancing community cohesion, promoting economic empowerment, providing social support. Among other things, this study also attempts to facilitate collaboration with security agencies. By the affective utilisation of the cooperative societies, the insecurity in Nigeria can be redress and eradicated to the minimal level. The societies can mobilize resources and foster resilience within the Nigerian people. The findings explicitly reveal that the potentials of the cooperative societies in addressing the insecurity have not been effectively utilised the need for a comprehensive approach to involve the cooperative societies in tackling the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria. However, the recommendations suggest for strengthening cooperative structures by the government through the involvement of the cooperative societies in promoting economic opportunities, and enhancing community engagement to create safer environments in the country.