Author(s) :

FRANC Ter Abagen, EMMANUEL Shaaperah.

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Abstract :

This study examines urban digitalization and public safety with a focus on networked surveillance systems in Makurdi metropolis, Nigeria. The study investigates the role of surveillance technologies in enhancing public safety, assesses the contribution of urban digitalization to crime prevention and security management, and identifies challenges affecting the implementation and governance of these systems. A descriptive research design was adopted, using both primary data collected through structured questionnaires and secondary sources. A sample of 385 respondents was selected using purposive sampling, while data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The paper is anchored on Surveillance Theory (Panopticism). Findings reveal that networked surveillance systems significantly enhance public safety, urban digitalization technologies contribute positively to crime prevention and security management, and several challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, weak coordination, and limited technical capacity, hinder effective implementation. The study concludes that while digital surveillance improves urban security, its effectiveness depends on addressing institutional and infrastructural constraints. It recommends expansion of surveillance infrastructure, integration of advanced digital technologies, capacity building for security personnel, and stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure effective governance and public trust. Keywords: Urban digitalization, public safety, Networked surveillance, and Smart cities.

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