AN EXAMINATION OF THE SOCIOECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT IN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the Study Internal displacement in Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, North-Central, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has largely resulted from violent extremism perpetrated by the Boko Haram insurgency as well as ongoing intercommunal conflicts (Kothhari, 2016). These hostilities have led to widespread destruction of homes, loss of lives, and the forced migration of many individuals seeking safety. Those affected have either taken refuge within the FCT or in other regions across the country, becoming what are officially recognized as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) (Adamu & Rasheed, 2016). Although the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, along with various regional and international treaties, obliges the government to ensure peace, public safety, and a secure environment for all citizens, Nigeria continues to experience persistent waves of insurgency and communal violence. These events have contributed to massive internal displacement, resulting in substantial human and material losses (Adenitan, 2015). The escalation of violence has not only led to widespread displacement but also to serious violations of human rights and the breakdown of law and order in several parts of the country (Beland, 2015). Security forces deployed to these conflict zones are often accused of excessive use of force and discriminatory practices, failing to abide by internationally accepted rules of engagement. This has led to growing mistrust among the very communities they are meant to protect, thereby undermining their operational effectiveness (Itumo & Nwefuru, 2016). Victims of these crises include innocent civilians caught in the crossfire between insurgents and government forces, as well as those affected by communal clashes. Beyond the direct casualties, these events result in large-scale destruction of lives and property, with long-term consequences including physical injury and disability. A significant portion of the displaced population consists of vulnerable groups such as the elderly, women, and children. According to Robinson (2016), IDPs often face limited access to basic necessities like food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. One of the core socioeconomic challenges in Nigeria is the adequate provision of support to displaced individuals, especially in the FCT, largely due to continued violence orchestrated by Boko Haram in the North-East. Robinson (2016) further notes that the complexity surrounding internal displacement in Nigeria has made it difficult to gather reliable data needed for policy formulation and targeted interventions. Opara (2016) observes that Boko Haram initiated its reign of terror in 2009, triggering a humanitarian crisis marked by the destruction of infrastructure and a rising IDP population. The crisis has had ripple effects, impacting not only the North-East but also other parts of the country, including the FCT. This has placed considerable strain on Nigeria’s economy, social fabric, and quality of life. The persistent insecurity has compelled the Nigerian government to allocate significant resources toward restoring peace. However, the economic burden often disproportionately affects vulnerable populations who suffer immense social and financial hardship. According to Opara (2016), the government has responded by setting up IDP camps in the FCT and other affected areas, yet issues like overcrowding, poor sanitation, high unemployment, and insecurity remain prevalent in these camps. The continuation of violent extremism by Boko Haram and other radical groups poses a severe threat to national security and has resulted in the widespread displacement of citizens (Verissimo, 2017). Given this context, the study seeks to examine the socioeconomic implications of internal displacement in Nigeria. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The Boko Haram insurgency has emerged as a primary driver of internal displacement in Nigeria, attracting significant attention from both local and international communities. The group's activities have escalated beyond the North-East to neighboring regions, disrupting socio-economic activities and exacerbating poverty and instability (Verissimo, 2017). The protracted conflict has forced countless individuals to abandon their homes, livelihoods, and sources of income to seek refuge in unfamiliar territories where economic opportunities are scarce. The resulting destruction of public and private infrastructure has caused financial losses running into billions of naira, resources that could otherwise have been invested in development and economic growth. Available data reveal that the North-East ranks among the least developed regions in the country, with high poverty rates and low literacy levels. Internal displacement, therefore, poses significant socio-economic challenges to the nation as a whole, irrespective of geographic boundaries. Importantly, addressing internal displacement is not the sole responsibility of government. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international bodies, and humanitarian agencies also play critical roles in alleviating the plight of IDPs. However, despite these efforts, many displaced persons continue to live under precarious conditions, particularly in the FCT and other receiving communities. Internal displacement not only disrupts individual lives but also strains national resources and hinders economic productivity. Thus, in light of the above issues, this study aims to investigate the socioeconomic impact of internal displacement in Nigeria, with the goal of informing more effective policy interventions and support mechanisms. 1.3       Objective of the study The broad objective of the study is to examine the Socioeconomic Consequences of Internal Displacement in Nigeria. The specific objectives is as follows: i.Ascertain the cause of internal displacement in Nigeria. ii.Ascertain the prevalence of internal displacement in Nigeria iii.Determine the extent internal displacement affect socio-economic development in Nigeria ii.   Ascertain the socio-economic implications of internal displacement in Nigeria. 1.4       Research questions The following questions have been prepared for the study: i.What is the cause of internal displacement in Nigeria? ii.What is the prevalence of internal displacement in Nigeria? iii.What is the extent internal displacement affect socio-economic development in Nigeria? ii.   What are the socio-economic implications of internal displacement in Nigeria? 1.5       Resrearch Hypotheses The hypotheses have been formulated for the study: H0:  The extent to which internal displacement affect socio-economic development in Nigeria is low. Ha: The extent to which internal displacement affect socio-economic development in Nigeria is high. 1.6       Significance of the study The  findings of the study is significant policy makers which aims to guide the different branches of government, donors and humanitarian agencies in preventing displacement and in providing protection and assistance to those displaced have not been sign into law. It also allocates responsibilities to the appropriate government bodies for different aspects of the short term, medium term and long term response to internally displaced persons, with the existing National Commission for Refugees (NCFR) as the national focal point with responsibility for coordinating the activities of all agencies like National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and International Humanitarian Agencies (IHA) have not been officially launched. 1.7       Scope of the study The study focuses on  the Socioeconomic Consequences of Internal Displacement in Nigeria. Hence, the study will ascertain the cause of internal displacement in Nigeria, ascertain the prevalence of internal displacement in Nigeria, determine the extent internal displacement affect socio-economic development in Nigeria and ascertain the socio-economic implications of internal displacement in Nigeria. The study is delimited to Abuja. 1.8       Limitations of the study Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced. 1.9       Definition of terms IDP: internally displaced persons