The interplay between fragility and crime in African states: a case study of Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract A sizable number of African countries are becoming increasingly fragile, chiefly because of their persistently weak institutions and their incapacity to respond adequately to a plethora of well‐known and emerging security, political, and socio‐economic challenges. This article investigates the connection between fragility and crime in contemporary Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire. Field research was conducted in the two West African countries, where opinions of representative samples of the populations were sought through questionnaires, in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). What are the prevailing and emerging criminal threats confronting Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire in contemporary dispensation? On the one hand, the research discovers that organised crime like kidnapping for ransom, terrorism (referring to the activities of Boko Haram), rape of underage minors and girls, and the ‘baby factory’ industry, is prevalent as a result of state fragility in Nigeria; and, on the other hand, cybercrime in Côte d'Ivoire. The article suggests an urgent need for proactive action in order to prevent the fast‐growing threats identified in Nigeria being replicated in Côte d'Ivoire, especially at this time when the latter is in its post‐conflict phase. Also, the transnational nature of the above‐mentioned organised crime has grave implications for regional and international security, stemming from the fact that perpetrators often have established global networks and operations.