STREET HAWKING AND INFORMAL ECONOMY: CHALLENGES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT IN NASARAWA STATE

 SOLD BY: Excellent Project| ATTRIBUTES: Title, Abstract, Chapter 1-5 and Appendices|FORMAT: Microsoft Word| PRICE: N3000| BUY NOW |DELIVERY TIME: Within 24hrs. For more details Chatt with us on WHATSAPP @ https://wa.me/2348055730284

STREET HAWKING AND INFORMAL ECONOMY: CHALLENGES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT IN NASARAWA STATE

ABSTRACT

Street hawking is a prevalent economic activity in many urban areas of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. This study aims to assess the economic impact of street hawking, explore the regulatory challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, identify the associated health and safety risks, evaluate the prevalence and impact of child labor, and propose sustainable solutions. Using a quantitative research method, data were collected from 85 respondents, including street hawkers, law enforcement officers, and other stakeholders, through structured questionnaires. The findings reveal that street hawking is a significant source of income for many households, contributing positively to the local economy. However, it poses various challenges, including inadequate regulatory frameworks, resource constraints for law enforcement agencies, and health and safety risks. Child labor is prevalent in street hawking, adversely affecting the education and well-being of children involved. To balance the economic benefits with regulatory requirements, the study recommends establishing designated hawking zones, strengthening law enforcement, revising regulatory frameworks, promoting alternative employment opportunities, conducting public awareness campaigns, and implementing child protection measures. By addressing these issues through a multifaceted approach, Nasarawa State can enhance the regulation and safety of street hawking while ensuring that the economic benefits are not lost. These findings and recommendations are crucial for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders aiming to improve the management and sustainability of street hawking in urban areas.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Street hawking, a ubiquitous element of the informal economy in many developing nations, plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of millions. In Nigeria, and particularly in Nasarawa State, street hawking has become an essential means of survival for many urban poor (Okojie, 2019). This informal trade provides easy access to goods and services in areas underserved by formal retail establishments, and it offers a flexible source of income for those who lack opportunities in the formal job market (Adeyemi & Fadeyi, 2020).

The rise of street hawking in Nasarawa State can be attributed to several factors. Rapid urbanization, coupled with inadequate formal employment opportunities, has pushed many individuals into informal economic activities (Oduh et al., 2019). Moreover, the low barrier to entry, requiring minimal capital investment, makes street hawking an attractive option for many (Williams & Yeboah, 2020).

Despite its economic benefits, street hawking poses significant challenges. The lack of regulation and oversight often results in health and safety risks, particularly in the food vending sector, where improper handling and storage of goods can lead to public health issues (Asiedu & Agyei-Mensah, 2019). Additionally, the unregulated nature of street hawking leads to revenue losses for the government, as these activities often evade taxation (Chen, 2018).

Child labor is another critical issue associated with street hawking in Nasarawa State. Many children are involved in hawking, which interferes with their education and exposes them to various forms of exploitation and abuse (Akinwumi, 2017). This situation not only undermines the children’s future prospects but also perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

Law enforcement agencies face considerable challenges in regulating street hawking. The mobility of hawkers, coupled with limited resources, makes effective monitoring difficult (Meagher, 2016). Moreover, corruption within law enforcement can lead to selective enforcement and exploitation of hawkers, exacerbating the issue (Onyeiwu, 2019).

Efforts to address street hawking must balance economic and social considerations. Developing regulatory frameworks that formalize street hawking, while providing support and training for hawkers, can help mitigate the associated challenges (Skinner, 2018). Community involvement and anti-corruption measures within law enforcement are also critical in creating a fair and sustainable environment for all stakeholders (Lindell, 2019).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Street hawking in Nasarawa State presents multifaceted challenges that complicate efforts to regulate and manage the informal economy effectively. Despite its economic significance, the unregulated nature of street hawking leads to health and safety concerns, tax evasion, and public space congestion (Asiedu & Agyei-Mensah, 2019; Chen, 2018). These issues highlight the need for a balanced approach that considers the livelihoods of hawkers while addressing the regulatory gaps.

Law enforcement agencies are particularly strained by the task of managing street hawking. The highly mobile and decentralized nature of hawking activities makes consistent enforcement difficult (Meagher, 2016). Additionally, corruption and lack of resources further impede effective regulation, leading to selective enforcement and exploitation of hawkers (Onyeiwu, 2019).

Furthermore, the involvement of children in street hawking remains a significant concern. Child labor not only disrupts the educational development of young hawkers but also exposes them to various risks, including exploitation and abuse (Akinwumi, 2017). Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates regulatory measures, support programs for hawkers, and community engagement.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of this study are to:

1. Examine the economic impact of street hawking in Nasarawa State.
2. Identify the regulatory challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in managing street hawking.
3. Assess the health and safety risks associated with street hawking.
4. Investigate the prevalence and impact of child labor in street hawking activities.
5. Propose sustainable solutions to balance the economic benefits of street hawking with regulatory requirements.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the economic impact of street hawking in Nasarawa State?
2. What regulatory challenges do law enforcement agencies face in managing street hawking?
3. What are the health and safety risks associated with street hawking?
4. How prevalent is child labor in street hawking, and what are its impacts?
5. What sustainable solutions can balance the economic benefits of street hawking with regulatory requirements?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it addresses a critical aspect of the informal economy in Nasarawa State. By examining the economic impact of street hawking, the study highlights its importance as a livelihood strategy for many urban poor, providing insights into how to support and formalize these activities (Okojie, 2019). Understanding the regulatory challenges faced by law enforcement can inform policy development, leading to more effective management and oversight (Meagher, 2016).

The study also sheds light on the health and safety risks associated with street hawking, particularly in the food sector, emphasizing the need for better regulation and training to ensure public health (Asiedu & Agyei-Mensah, 2019). Additionally, by investigating the prevalence and impact of child labor, the study underscores the social implications of street hawking and the necessity for protective measures to safeguard children’s rights (Akinwumi, 2017).

Furthermore, the proposed sustainable solutions aim to balance economic benefits with regulatory requirements, providing a framework for policymakers to develop strategies that support street hawkers while addressing public concerns (Skinner, 2018). The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations involved in urban planning and economic development.

1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study focuses on street hawking in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, examining its economic impact, regulatory challenges, health and safety risks, and the issue of child labor. The research is limited to urban areas within the state, where street hawking is most prevalent. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and observations, targeting street hawkers, law enforcement officials, and community leaders.

The study does not cover other forms of informal economic activities outside street hawking. It also excludes rural areas where street hawking may not be as prominent. The timeframe for data collection and analysis is six months, from August 2024 to January 2025.

1.7 Operational Definition of Key Terms

• Street Hawking: The act of selling goods or services in public places, often by individuals who carry their wares and move from one location to another (Williams & Yeboah, 2020).
• Informal Economy: Economic activities that are not regulated by the government, often characterized by the lack of formal contracts, job security, and social benefits (Chen, 2018).
• Regulatory Challenges: Difficulties faced by authorities in enforcing laws and regulations, including resource constraints, corruption, and the mobility of informal traders (Meagher, 2016).
• Child Labor: The involvement of children in economic activities that are harmful to their health, development, and education (Akinwumi, 2017).
• Health and Safety Risks: Potential dangers associated with the lack of regulation in street vending, including foodborne illnesses and accidents (Asiedu & Agyei-Mensah, 2019).

 SOLD BY: Excellent Project| ATTRIBUTES: Title, Abstract, Chapter 1-5 and Appendices|FORMAT: Microsoft Word| PRICE: N3000| BUY NOW |DELIVERY TIME: Within 24hrs. For more details Chatt with us on WHATSAPP @ https://wa.me/2348055730284