CHALLENGES IN ADDRESSING TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED CRIMES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Transnational organised crime (TOC) is a menace to economic development and international advancement. In curbing the menace, international cooperation amongst nations is important however several factors militate against efforts aimed at curbing the menace this has led to the unfortunate thrive of the phenomenon. This paper, which rely on primary and secondary data, adopts desk-based method in discussing the challenges in addressing transnational organised crimes in Nigeria. The paper identified various forms of transnational organised crimes across nations and explored strategies to assist states in capacity building. The findings revealed that the current legal frameworks for international cooperation in Nigeria are woefully inadequate. These limitations have hindered cross-border law enforcement efforts, necessitating improvements in the existing legal structures. It is recommended not only to strengthen the legal frameworks for extradition, mutual legal assistance, and prisoner transfers but also increasing awareness and effective utilization of the concept of international cooperation in combating transnational organized crime in Nigeria. The paper therefore recommends that Nigeria should formulate a clear policy to enhance existing domestic legislation, treaties, and policy frameworks related to joint investigations, transfer of criminal proceedings, and the recognition and enforcement of foreign criminal judgments.