In Kano State, violent clashes between youth gangs have created tension across metropolitan communities. These conflicts, commonly referred to as the Daba crisis, often arise over territory and frequently result in loss of life, destruction of property, and disruption of daily life. The crisis has particularly affected areas such as Kofar Na’isa, Dorayi, Kofar Dan Agundi, Zage, Kofar Wambai, and Yalwa in Gwale, Kano Municipal, and Dala local governments. These recurring incidents point to deeper social and economic issues, particularly the lack of employment for young people.
Many of the youths involved in these violent activities are unemployed and feel excluded from economic opportunities. The situation is not new, as the crisis traces its roots to the 1980s and 1990s when socio-political instability and economic challenges gave rise to gangs. Originally formed for survival, these groups have grown into criminal networks, engaging in violence, extortion, and other illegal acts. Easy access to weapons and weak security responses have worsened the situation. Schools and businesses in affected communities are often impacted, and the breakdown of trust among residents has made recovery difficult.
Youth unemployment in Kano is among the highest in Nigeria. A major factor is the gap between what schools teach and what the job market demands. Industrial growth is limited, infrastructure is weak, and while many youths turn to informal jobs, most of these do not offer security or long-term prospects. Frustration builds, and in the absence of alternatives, young people join gangs. These groups offer a sense of identity, income, and power that many cannot find elsewhere.
The connection between joblessness and unrest is not unique to Kano. Studies show that when youths are left idle, they often become vulnerable to recruitment into violence. For many, gang life becomes a way to escape poverty or gain respect. This link between unemployment and violence needs to be broken through deliberate and inclusive action.
Some theories help explain the crisis. One is conflict theory, which suggests that unequal access to resources fuels social unrest. In Kano, many young people have little access to education, jobs, or other basic services, creating resentment and leading to violence. Another useful idea is economic empowerment, which focuses on improving people’s lives through access to economic opportunities. Providing jobs does more than pay bills—it gives youths dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
Unemployed youths in Kano often join gangs to meet basic needs or find a sense of belonging. The lack of opportunities reinforces the cycle of poverty and violence. Personal stories from affected youths reveal desperation and a search for meaning in a society that seems to have left them behind. Changing this pattern means creating real job opportunities.
Kano has potential in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and information technology. Farming, for instance, can employ more people if young people are trained and given access to land and tools. Manufacturing can grow if small businesses receive support, and the tech sector holds promise for those with digital skills. Programs like vocational training, apprenticeships, and partnerships with companies can help bridge the skills gap and improve chances of employment.
Government policies should support job creation through investment in infrastructure, education, and business development. Programs targeting youth employment and entrepreneurship can offer both short-term relief and long-term solutions. Security agencies also need to protect communities and hold those behind gang violence accountable.
Non-governmental organizations and local leaders can help too. They can run skills programs, mentor youth, and help rebuild trust within communities. When these groups work together with the government, they can reach more young people and make a bigger impact.
The Daba crisis in Kano is rooted in youth unemployment. Addressing this issue requires action on multiple fronts—jobs, education, security, and leadership. Creating opportunities for young people is one of the most effective ways to reduce violence and build lasting peace.
All stakeholders—government, NGOs, community leaders, and the private sector—must come together and make youth employment a priority. Helping young people find their place in society is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smartest path toward peace and progress in Kano.
Yusuf Maitama Imam is a public affairs analyst. He wrote this piece from Kano and can be reached at belloyimam@gmail.com
