Youth Unemployment and Radicalisation in Yobe State: Implications for Peacebuilding

This study investigates the relationship between youth unemployment and radicalisation in Yobe State, North East Nigeria, and draws implications for peacebuilding strategies in the region. Yobe State has been among the states most severely affected by extremist violence, and socioeconomic marginalisation, particularly high youth unemployment, is frequently cited as a contributing factor to the recruitment successes of insurgent organisations in the Lake Chad Basin area. The study employs a descriptive research design, using structured questionnaires administered to 175 youths aged 18 to 30 in Damaturu, Potiskum, and Nguru local government areas, complemented by key informant interviews with de-radicalisation program officers and community leaders. The study's theoretical framework is anchored in push-pull radicalisation theory and the human needs theory of conflict. Findings reveal that youths with no formal employment or vocational engagement are significantly more susceptible to radicalisation messaging, often through informal social networks and mosque-based recruitment channels. However, strong family bonds and community belonging emerged as protective factors against radicalisation. The study recommends scaling up vocational training programs tailored to the local economy, strengthening community-led counter-radicalisation initiatives, and establishing youth peace corps programs in Yobe State as vehicles for engagement and empowerment. Keywords: youth unemployment, radicalisation, Yobe State, peacebuilding, extremism.