ABSTRACT
Globalization,
characterized by interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, has had
profound implications for Nigeria’s national security. This study investigates
the multifaceted effects of globalization on terrorism, transnational crime,
cybersecurity infrastructure, and border security challenges in Nigeria,
proposing strategies to mitigate its negative impacts. The objectives were to
examine the influence of globalization on terrorism and transnational crime,
assess its impact on Nigeria’s cybersecurity infrastructure, analyze its role
in exacerbating border security challenges, and recommend strategies for
enhancing national security within the context of globalization. The study
employed a descriptive survey research design using primary source of data
collection with the aid of a well structured questionnaire. A survey of
relevant stakeholders, including government officials, security professionals,
policymakers, and academicians, was conducted to gather quantitative data. The
chi-square statistical test was used to analyze the hypotheses, ensuring a
rigorous and empirical examination of the issues. The findings reveal that
globalization significantly influences the rise of terrorism and transnational
crime in Nigeria, as evidenced by the increasing prevalence of organized
criminal networks and the spread of extremist ideologies. However, it also
highlights the potential for effective strategies to mitigate these threats,
emphasizing the importance of international cooperation, investment in
technology, and the enhancement of institutional capacity. The study
recommended strengthening Nigeria’s cybersecurity framework through advanced
technological investments and capacity building, implementing robust border
security measures using digital surveillance tools, and fostering international
partnerships to combat transnational crimes and terrorism.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background of the Study
1.2
Statement Problem
1.3 Objectives
of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research
Prepositions
1.6 Significance
of the Study
1.7 Scope
and Limitations of the Study
1.8 Operational
Definition of Terms
1.9 Organisation
of the Study
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Conceptual Review
2.1.1 Globalization
2.1.2 Concept
of Globalization in the Nigerian Context
2.1.3 National Sovereignty
2.1.4 National Security
2.1.5 Global Security Challenges
2.1.5.1 National Security Challenges
2.1.5.2 Human Security Challenges
2.1.6 The
link between security challenges and national development
2.1.7 Efforts to Address Global
Security Challenges
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.2.1 Securitization Theory
2.2.2 Globalization
Theory
2.2.3 Dependency
Theory
2.3 Empirical Framework
2.3.1 Review of Studies on Globalization Influence on Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime
2.3.2
Review of Studies on the Impact of Globalization on Nigeria’s Critical
National Security Infrastructure
2.3.3
Review of Studies on the Challenges of Leveraging Opportunities and
Combating the Negative Impacts of Globalization
2.3.4 Review
of Studies on Strategies for Enhancing
Security in the Context of Globalization
2.4 Gaps
in Literature
CHAPTER
THREE
METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Population of Study
3.3 Sample
Size and Sampling Technique
3.4 Methods
of Data Collection
3.5 Data Collection Instrument
3.6
Validity of the Instrument
3.7 Reliability
of the Instrument
3.8 Methods
of Data Analysis
CHAPTER
FOUR
DATA
PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Personal
Characteristics of Respondents
4.2 Response
of Respondents to the Problem Areas.
4.2.1 Responses on how Globalization Influenced Terrorism and
Transnational Crime
in Nigeria
4.2.2
Responses to the
Impact of Globalization on Nigeria's Cybersecurity
Infrastructure
4.2.3
Responses on the
Role of Globalization in Exacerbating Nigeria’s Border Security
Challenges
4.2.4
Responses on Strategies
for Enhancing Nigeria’s National Security in the Context
of
Globalization
4.3 Testing and Interpretation of the Hypotheses.
4.3.1
Test of Hypothesis One
4.3.2
Test of Hypothesis Two
4.3.3
Test of Hypothesis Three
4.3.4
Test of Hypothesis Four
4.4 Discussion of Findings
CHAPTER
FIVE
SUMMARY,
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendations of the study
5.4 Suggestions
for Further Studies
References
Appendix: Questionnaire
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Globalization is a multi-dimensional development characterized by
the increased interdependence of nations in regard to trade, information,
technology, culture, and political systems (Egbule, 2022). The dynamics of
globalization within the spheres of nations over the past decades have continued
to affect security. Globalization has heightened the exchange of information,
people, and goods across borders, creating new opportunities and challenges to
national security (Cuervo‐Cazurra et al.,
2020). The impact of globalization in relation to national security has been a
cause for concern in Nigeria, especially since 2015 which has recorded an
increase in the activities related to terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational
crime.
Globalization has played a dual role in Nigeria’s security because
on one hand, it has promoted economic growth and technological advancement
which are essential for national stability (Oluwagbade & Ibidapo, 2024). However, on the other
hand, it has increased the country’s vulnerability to external threats such as
terrorism, cyberattacks, and organized crime (Adejoh, 2024). Unrestricted flow
of information and upsurge in global terrorism have heightened security threats
within Nigeria, as a number of violent extremist groups, such as the Boko Haram
insurgency, have grown increasingly dependent upon global networks to
facilitate activities.
Oguejiofor & Agbaenyi, (2023) noted that terrorist activities
have increased since 2015 to date as Boko Haram and its affiliates continue to
grow in northeastern Nigeria. The growing influence of the group, further
enthralled by such capabilities to conduct attacks, has posed enormous
challenges to national security. During this time, what became high and open
was the recruitment activities of the organization into its fold, hence
widening its reach to increase the frequency of violent incidents in the
region.
Globalization has been a factor that has very much exacerbated some
of the security issues for example through the spread of extremist ideologies,
weapons mobility, and illegal financial flows (Kilonzo, 2024). These illicit
crime are combined to increase the complexity of containing such threats by
security agencies. Notwithstanding, other important developments that is associated
with globalization include increased cybersecurity infrastructure. However, with
the increasing integration into digital networks globally, the risks of
cyberattacks such as hacking, online fraud, and data breaches presents another challenging
dimension of threat to national security all over the world (Ibrar et al., 2024). Despite the fact that
these digital platforms have contributed to stimulating economic development,
yet their negative impact cannot be treated with kids glove.
The challenges brought by globalization have propelled the
government into undertaking a set of counter-terrorism measures (Bint-Shafiq
& Al-Faruque, 2023). While there are some successes recorded, there are
still persistent difficulties regarding uprooting the very causes of
insecurity. The building of institutional frameworks and enhancement of
national security responses remains an ongoing necessity in relation to both
traditional security threats and emerging risks from cyber-related crimes (Amah
& Tende, 2020).
However, the relationship between globalization and national
security in Nigeria is a lot more complex. Globalization presents a set of
opportunities and risks that need to be weighed carefully. This thesis,
therefore, sets out to explore globalization’s impact on National Security in
Nigeria between 2015 and 2023 with a mindset of finding mitigating strategies
against its negative impacts.
1.2 Statement Problem
Globalization which was supposed to economically integrate the
nation and promote civilization through technological advancement has
substantially heightened, rather than reduced, the negative vulnerability in
Nigeria’s security apparatus, terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational criminal
activities in Nigeria remained more heightened thus further weakening the
country’s national security since 2015 (Okoru & Oluku, 2024). An example is
the Boko Haram insurgency, Militancy, Eastern Security Network which is the
armed wing of the indigenous people of Biafra has increasingly used global
networks for arms, finance, and recruitment which have complicated the efforts of
security forces to combat insecurity (John, 2022).
Globalization, while having many impacts in Nigeria has resulted in
rapid digitalization, which exposes several vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity
infrastructure. Increased usage of the internet and better access to more
digital platforms have led to different cyber threats such as data breaches,
financial fraud, and hacking, which have presented various challenges to
national security (Asaad & Saeed, 2022). Globalization brings into practice
illegal goods such as arms and drugs across borders which have placed the security
agencies in very precarious situations. The challenges associated with
globalization demands an interdisciplinary approach like integrating the
improvements in cybersecurity, border control, and international cooperation (Mwakangale,
2023). No doubt, inadequate infrastructure, frail legal frameworks, and a
shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals are part of the reasons why the
Nigerian government cannot fight against cybercrime.
It is under globalization that transnational crimes like human
trafficking have equally thrived. It is the porous nature of Nigeria borders that
has facilitated the easy cross-border flow of illegal goods and trafficking while
at the same time it has weakened the institutional capacity and efforts to
contain the shortfalls emanating from these crimes (Ojiakor et al., 2021). Coupled with the recent
pressure wrought by conflicts in other countries, an influx of refugees and
migrants into Nigeria has over-stressed its security apparatus in ways that
make it very difficult to sustain national stability. These security challenges
have joined the critical question of whether Nigeria is capable of protecting
her citizens and sovereignty against the forces of globalization.
There is a need for an overall evaluation in respect of the impacts
of this globalization on the national security of Nigeria. This study intends
to find solution to the security challenges bought by globalization in Nigeria.
1.3 Objectives
of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to examine the
impacts of globalization on Nigeria’s national security between 2015 and 2023.
The specific objectives are to:
- Investigate how globalization influenced terrorism and
transnational organized crime in Nigeria.
- Assess the impact of globalization on Nigeria’s critical
national security infrastructure.
- Examine the challenges Nigeria Encounter in the process
of leveraging on opportunities available and combating the negative impact
of globalization.
- Propose strategies for enhancing Nigeria’s national
security in the context of globalization.
1.4 Research
Questions
This study
tends to provide answers to the following research questions.
- How has globalization influenced terrorism and
transnational organized crime in Nigeria?
- What impact has globalization had on Nigeria’s critical
national security infrastructure?
- What challenges do Nigeria Encounter in the process of
leveraging on opportunities available and combating the negative impact of
globalization.?
- What strategies can be implemented to enhance Nigeria’s
national security in the context of globalization?
1.6 Research
Prepositions
Based on the research
objectives of this study, the following propositions are formulated to examine
the relationship between globalization and its impact on Nigeria’s national
security, terrorism, transnational crime, and mitigation strategies.
i.
Globalization influences terrorism and
transnational organized crime in Nigeria.
ii.
Globalization impacts Nigeria’s
critical national security infrastructure.
iii.
Nigeria encounters challenges
in leveraging opportunities and combating the negative impacts of
globalization.
iv.
There are strategies for
mitigating the negative impacts of globalization on Nigeria’s national
security.
1.6 Significance
of the Study
This work is important both
practically and theoretically. From the practical perspective, it will be
useful lessons for policy makers, security agencies, and international
organizations involved in addressing security challenges occasioned by
globalization. It would also allow them to understand how globalization links
to national security; this would, in turn, accord them the opportunity to
devise more effective strategies in the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty and
its citizens.
Theoretically, the study will add
weight to existing literature on the debate about globalization and security
with empirical evidence derived from Nigeria. This will develop the literature
on how globalization influences national security in developing nations,
especially on the African continent.
1.7 Scope
and Limitations of the Study
The scope of this study is limited to the examination of the
impacts of globalization on Nigeria’s national security between 2015 and 2023.
The study focuses on key security challenges, including terrorism, cybercrime,
and transnational crime. It does not delve into the broader socio-economic
impacts of globalization.
In
a study of this nature, it is anticipated that certain challenges may arise,
potentially impacting the research process. One significant issue is the
attitude of respondents, which may lead to reluctance in providing relevant and
reliable data. This can stem from various factors such as distrust, lack of
interest, or misunderstanding of the study’s objectives. Another challenge is
time constraint, as the study must be conducted within a limited timeframe,
which may put pressure on the research process and data collection activities.
Additionally, financial limitations could pose a challenge, as the costs associated
with conducting research, such as transportation, data collection, and
materials may strain the available resources.
Despite these
anticipated challenges, they are not expected to compromise the overall outcome
of the research. Adequate measures, such as careful planning, effective
communication with respondents, and efficient resource management, will be
employed to mitigate these issues and ensure the study's success.
1.8 Operational
Definition of Terms
Globalization:
Globalization is defined as an international relationship between nations based
on interdependence, brought about by improvement in communication,
transportation, and technology (Garcia, 2020). This
generally includes the integration of economies, culture, and political systems
across borders, allowing goods, services, information, and capital to flow
throughout the world.
National
Security: National security could be defined as the
protection of sovereignty and integrity of one nation’s territorial configuration
and its citizens, both against internal and external threats (Kitler,
2021). In general, it includes military defense, economic
stability, state political independence, and safeguarding against cyber,
environmental, and social threats.
Cybersecurity:
Cybersecurity is basically the process of securing computer systems, networks,
and data from digital damages such as hacking and phishing, among others, which
involve unauthorized access. It is concerned with a set of methods for
preserving the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information in
an increasingly digitalizing world (Jimmy, 2024).
Terrorism:
It is an illegitimate means of fulfilling political,
ideological, or religious ends through the perpetration of violence against
civilians. The focus of terrorism consists of inspiring fear, coercion of the
government, and disruptions to stability in society, which occurs nearly always
with non-state actors or extremist groups (Law,
2024).
Transnational
Crime: Transnational crime refers to criminal activities
that transcend multiple national borders. Activities in drug trafficking, human
trafficking, smuggling, money laundering, and organized crime networks have
utilized aspects of globalization to evade law enforcement across borders (Eyo
& Okebugwu, 2024).
Border
Security: While regulating the flow of its citizens, goods,
and services, a nation undertakes various measures and policies that are
collectively termed as border security. In the context of preventing illegal
immigration, trafficking, smuggling, as well as other transnational crimes,
border security works to allow free yet legitimate entry and exit (Castacio,
2024).
1.9
Organisation of the Study
The research
is arranged into five chapters. Chapter One introduces the research with the
background of the research, statement of the problem, objectives of research,
research questions, significance, and scope. Chapter Two reviews the relevant
literature of globalization and national security. Chapter Three describes the
methodology of research, techniques used in data collection, and analysis.
Chapter Four does the analysis and discussion of findings, while Chapter Five
provides the conclusion and recommendations from the results of the study.
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