PREVALENCE OF RITUAL KILLINGS AND INTERNET FRAUD AND ITS SOCIO - ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS AMONG YOUTHS IN UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

This study investigates the growing prevalence of ritual killings and internet fraud among Nigerian youth, using the University of Maiduguri as a case study. It examines the socio-economic implications for education, national image, and development. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study integrates both quantitative and qualitative data collected from students, educators, law enforcement officials, and community leaders through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. A total of 150 students and 100 academic and non-academic staff will be selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. The study aims to explore the extent of ritual killings and internet fraud among students of the University of Maiduguri, focusing on identifying their root causes and motivating factors, assessing their effects on the educational values and aspirations of youth, and examining their impact on Nigeria’s national image both locally and internationally. Furthermore, it seeks to evaluate the broader socio-economic implications of these vices and propose strategic interventions that can guide institutional and policy-level responses. Data will be analyzed using SPSS for descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data will be thematically examined. The findings are expected to reveal the drivers of these behaviours, their impact on student development and academic integrity, and the need for targeted reforms. Ultimately, the research aims to inform policy, strengthen educational ethics, and support the development of effective interventions to address moral decline and socio-economic challenges among Nigerian youth