Evidence from Nigeria Points to a Growing Forced Displacement Crisis
Forced displacement in Nigeria has reached alarming levels, driven primarily by conflict, violence, and economic hardships. Thousands of individuals and families have been uprooted from their homes, seeking refuge as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) within the country or crossing borders as refugees. A recent study sheds light on the realities faced by displaced populations, revealing critical gaps in security, economic integration, and access to basic services. The findings underscore the need for urgent policy interventions to address these pressing challenges and create sustainable solutions for those affected.
The research is part of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Research Project on Forced Displacement in West Africa, led by Prof. Mary B. Setrana of the University of Ghana. It is conducted in collaboration with Prof. Akanle, a sociologist and the team lead for Nigeria, along with other researchers analysing the patterns, causes, and policy implications of forced displacement in the region.
Scope and Time Frame of Data Collection
The study surveyed 500 respondents, including both IDPs and refugees from neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. It explored multiple displacement experiences, economic integration, safety perceptions, and gender-related vulnerabilities, providing key insights into the struggles FDPs face in securing livelihoods and accessing essential services. The findings illustrate the growing complexity of forced displacement, emphasising the importance of targeted interventions.
Root Causes of Displacement
Conflict and violence remain the leading causes of forced displacement in Nigeria. According to the study, 88% of IDPs and 77% of refugees fled due to armed conflict and attacks on their communities. Additional factors included direct military attacks (4% of refugees, 1% of IDPs), fear of personal targeting (2% of refugees, 4% of IDPs), and extreme poverty (5% of refugees, 1% of IDPs).
These figures highlight the urgent need for conflict resolution mechanisms and improved security frameworks. “The data illustrates the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria, with many displaced persons experiencing multiple episodes of displacement,” the report states. The prevalence of conflict-induced displacement calls for reinforced peacebuilding efforts and more robust humanitarian responses.
Economic Integration and Survival Strategies
Economic conditions for displaced persons remain dire, as many struggle to secure a stable livelihood. Upon arrival in host communities, 41% of refugees and 40% of IDPs relied on government support as their primary source of income. However, only 7% of displaced persons managed to secure stable employment, exacerbating their vulnerability.
Limited economic opportunities contribute to prolonged dependency on humanitarian aid. The study cautions that “without targeted interventions, displaced persons will struggle to achieve self-reliance.” Addressing these economic challenges requires the development of sustainable livelihood programmes, vocational training, and access to financial resources.
Perceptions of Safety and Living Conditions
While 44% of respondents reported feeling “very safe” in their host communities, 10% expressed concerns over security. Food insecurity remains a significant challenge, with 36% of displaced persons reporting inadequate access to food. Additionally, 14% struggled with high utility costs, and 8% faced poor living conditions.
Beyond financial hardships, displaced persons face barriers such as overcrowding, language difficulties, and limited educational access. These challenges underscore the importance of policies that improve housing conditions, enhance food distribution mechanisms, and ensure educational opportunities for displaced children.
Gender-Based Violence and Access to Support Services
The study reveals troubling trends regarding gender-based violence (GBV) among displaced populations. Young females were identified as the most vulnerable, with 72% of respondents citing their heightened risk.
Despite the prevalence of GBV, access to support services remains inadequate. While 14% of displaced persons reported experiencing GBV, only 20% of refugees and 19% of IDPs have accessed services designed to support survivors. The report highlights the necessity of strengthening GBV prevention programmes and improving access to safe spaces, medical care, and legal aid for survivors.
Policy Implications and the Way Forward
The study recommends several urgent policy actions to address the challenges faced by displaced persons in Nigeria. Enhanced security measures must be put in place to strengthen conflict prevention mechanisms and response strategies, ultimately curbing repeated displacements. Economic inclusion programmes should be expanded to create job opportunities, vocational training, and financial support systems for displaced persons, enabling them to rebuild their lives. Improved living conditions are also essential, focusing on tackling food insecurity, improving housing affordability, and ensuring access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
Additionally, gender-sensitive interventions should be strengthened by reinforcing GBV support systems, promoting gender-inclusive policies, and empowering women in leadership roles to ensure their active participation in decision-making processes. Sustainable return strategies should also be implemented, ensuring that those who wish to return to their communities can do so safely, with adequate support for reintegration.
In light of these, “Policy frameworks must integrate long-term strategies that address both the immediate humanitarian needs and the structural challenges leading to displacement.” These findings provide a roadmap for policymakers, humanitarian organisations, and development agencies to enhance the resilience and dignity of forcibly displaced persons in Nigeria.
The crisis of forced displacement in Nigeria demands a multi-faceted response. With conflict and economic hardship continuing to drive displacement, it is crucial for stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions. Strengthening security, expanding economic opportunities, and ensuring better access to essential services can help displaced persons rebuild their lives with dignity. As Nigeria navigates this crisis, coordinated efforts between government agencies, international organisations, and local communities will be essential in fostering long-term stability for displaced populations.