YOUTHS

Cybercrime has emerged as one of the most significant challenges facing Nigeria in the digital age, with its effects being particularly evident among youths. This study examines the impacts of cybercrime in Nigeria, using youths in Benin City as a case study. The research investigates the social, economic, and psychological consequences of cybercrime on young people, as well as its influence on societal values, employment opportunities, and the reputation of Nigeria both locally and internationally. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and relevant secondary sources involving youths within Benin City. The findings reveal that while cybercrime provides short-term financial gains for some individuals, it contributes significantly to moral decadence, youth unemployment, loss of trust in online transactions, financial losses to victims, and the stigmatization of Nigerian youths in global digital spaces. The study further identifies factors such as unemployment, poverty, peer influence, and the quest for quick wealth as major drivers of cybercrime among youths. The research concludes that cybercrime poses serious threats to sustainable development and social stability in Nigeria. It recommends increased employment opportunities, digital literacy programs, stricter law enforcement, and youth empowerment initiatives as effective measures to curb cybercrime and promote responsible use of information and communication technologies among young people in Benin City and Nigeria at large.

Drug abuse is a serious problem among university students. Many young people use drugs like marijuana and methamphetamine because of peer pressure, stress, or the desire to feel good. This study looks at how people view drug abuse among students at the University of Benin, Nigeria. It explores the types of drugs students’ use, why they use them, and how society reacts to the issue. The research was done through surveys and interviews with students and university staff. The results show that drug abuse is common, and many students use drugs to cope with school pressure or to fit in with friends. However, many people misunderstand the issue, and the stigma around drug use makes it harder for students to seek help. The study suggests that universities should provide more drug education programs, better counseling services, and focus on helping students recover rather than punishing them. This research will help create better ways to prevent and reduce drug abuse among students

This study explores the role of Ukwuani youths in this language endangerment, examining their attitudes, choices, and the social forces influencing their linguistic preferences. Grounded in Fishman’s Language Shift Theory (1964), the research adopts a quantitative approach, gathering data from 50 Ukwuani-speaking youths through structured questionnaires. Findings reveal a significant decline in Ukwuani usage, with English being the preferred language for daily interactions. While some youths still speak Ukwuani at home or during cultural events, its relevance in education, social media, and peer interactions is alarmingly low. Key contributing factors include urbanization, globalization, and the lack of formal instruction in Ukwuani. Despite this decline, hope remains. Many respondents support initiatives to revive the language, such as integrating Ukwuani into school curricula, promoting it on digital platforms, and encouraging community-based language programs. This study highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts between families, educators, policymakers, and the media to ensure that Ukwuani is not just a language of the past but a living, thriving part of the future.