LEADERSHIP RESPONSE TO SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF ARMED BANDITRY IN ZAMFARA STATE, NORTHWEST NIGERIA FROM 2019-2024

Abstract Armed banditry has become a major threat to socio-economic development in Zamfara State, NorthwestNigeria. Based on this situation, this study examined the socio-economic, educational, health, and psychologicalimpacts of armed banditry across selected LGAs. It also assessed government and NGO’s responses, identifiedcritical drivers of banditry, and evaluated community-preferred strategies for addressing the crisis. A crosssectional survey design was employed, and structured questionnaires were administered to 414 respondents inTsafe, Zurmi, and Maru LGAs. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and presented in frequencies andpercentages. Findings showed severe consequences across all sectors. Most respondents reported disruption offarming activities (91.3%), livestock losses (96.61%), reduced agricultural output (98.07%), and loss oflivelihood (81.16%). Social effects included overcrowded IDP camps (97.82%), family separation (96.13%),and increased disease and malnutrition (93.24%). Education was equally affected, with displacement of children(99.03%), frequent school closures (76.5%), and heightened child labour and early marriage (96.62%).Healthcare services declined due to destruction of facilities (68.4%), displacement of workers (88.2%), andrestricted medical access (88.4%). Psychological distress was widespread, including PTSD (93.23%) anddepression (97.10%). Poverty (84.54%) emerged as the most critical driver of banditry, followed byunemployment (41.54%) and weak governance (40.05%). Preferred strategies included enhanced securitymeasures (86.82%), economic support programmes (41.69%), and community engagement (37.22%). Overall,armed banditry imposes multidimensional disruptions requiring urgent multi sectorial action. Strengtheningsecurity structures, expanding poverty-reduction and employment initiatives, improving social services, andpromoting community-driven peace building are essential for restoring long-term stability and resilience inaffected communities.Keywords: Leadership response, Socio-economic and Armed banditr