Is Nigeria a Failed State?

Labeling Nigeria a “failed state” is a grave assertion—yet one that increasingly surfaces in both local and international discourse.

While the country retains the basic attributes of sovereignty, a functioning government, defined borders, and international recognition many of its internal dynamics exhibit symptoms of state fragility.

Nigeria struggles with widespread insecurity, from terrorism in the northeast to banditry, separatist violence, and kidnappings across other regions.

The state’s monopoly on the use of force has been severely weakened, as non-state actors often operate with impunity.

Economically, persistent corruption, unemployment, and poverty have eroded public trust in institutions, while governance failures and policy inconsistency undermine development efforts.

However, calling Nigeria a failed state overlooks its resilient civil society, active media, and democratic continuity, however flawed. National elections though imperfect continue to be held, and subnational governments still function.

These factors suggest that Nigeria remains a struggling or fragile state, not yet a failed one.

Ultimately, Nigeria stands at a crossroads: without decisive reform, accountability, and effective leadership, it risks sliding further toward systemic collapse.

Yet with its human capital, economic potential, and civic energy, it still holds the capacity to recover, if its leaders choose governance over self-preservation.