VEJOH - VERITAS JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES

Globally, the rate of crime is alarming but more worrisome is the involvement of youth that constitute a large percentage of the world population and generally, the leaders of tomorrow. Before colonization, communal practice in Africa made it possible for members of the communities to be their brothers' keepers and the duty of upbringing of children based on societal acceptable values was seen as a collective responsibility. However, colonization led to cultural fusion which altered traditional settings in many African countries, Nigeria inclusive. As a result of globalisation, happenings in one country are easily observed and imitated by people in other parts of the world. This is facilitated by information and communication technology. It has influenced youth behaviour. The study, therefore, examined the nexus between modernity and involvement of youth in crime in Ibadan metropolis, Oyo State of Nigeria. Bandura's social learning theory guided the investigation. Relying on both primary and secondary sources, relevant data collected were content analysed. Based on the findings, the study argued that modernity has negative impacts on youth behaviour in Ibadan metropolis, including participation in criminalities. However, collapse of family values as well as unemployment and poverty among youth are contributing factors. The study recommended, among others, that concerted efforts by critical stakeholders in upbringing of children and youth, and good governancein the State, and throughout Nigeria, are capable of stemming the menace.

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