YOUTH JOBLESSNESS AND LOCAL ECONOMIC STAGNATION: A CASE STUDY OF YOLA SOUTH

This study examines the socio-economic effects of youth unemployment in Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. Youth unemployment is increasingly recognized as a major obstacle to Nigeria's economic development. The research aimed to determine whether the high rates of poverty and crime in the area are linked to unemployment among youths. Primary data were collected through 500 questionnaires administered to youth respondents, and results were analyzed using simple percentages and chi-square tests. Findings reveal that unemployment significantly contributes to drug abuse, criminal behavior, and widespread poverty among the youth population. The study concludes that youth unemployment has detrimental impacts on socio-economic development by lowering living standards and fostering social instability. Based on these findings, the study recommends the implementation of employment schemes, skills acquisition programs, and the establishment of industries to generate job opportunities. Additionally, increased public awareness campaigns by government agencies are needed to curb drug abuse among unemployed youth