An Assessment of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Economic Reintegration in Maiduguri Local Government Area, Borno State

An Assessment of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Economic Reintegration in Maiduguri Local Government Area, Borno State

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Background of the Study

The displacement of individuals due to conflict, insurgency, and natural disasters has become a major socio-economic challenge in many developing countries, including Nigeria. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) often face difficulties in reintegrating into the economy due to loss of livelihoods, destruction of assets, and limited access to resources (Yahaya & Usman, 2023). Economic reintegration involves the process of providing IDPs with opportunities to rebuild their lives through employment, entrepreneurship, and access to financial support. Effective reintegration is essential in ensuring that displaced persons become self-reliant, reducing dependence on humanitarian aid (Ahmed & Musa, 2024).

Maiduguri Local Government Area in Borno State has one of the highest numbers of IDPs in Nigeria, largely due to the Boko Haram insurgency. The conflict has resulted in the destruction of homes, farmlands, markets, and other economic infrastructures, leaving thousands of people without means of livelihood. Although several government and international interventions have been introduced to support IDPs, economic reintegration remains a major challenge due to factors such as inadequate job opportunities, social stigma, limited access to capital, and insecurity (Ibrahim & Abdullahi, 2024).

This study seeks to assess the extent to which IDPs in Maiduguri are being reintegrated into the economy. It will examine the effectiveness of existing reintegration programs, identify the key barriers faced by IDPs, and propose policy recommendations for improving economic reintegration.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite numerous efforts to support IDPs in Maiduguri, many displaced persons still struggle with economic reintegration. High unemployment, limited access to credit, and inadequate vocational training programs have hindered IDPs from becoming self-reliant (Oladipo & Yusuf, 2023). Additionally, ongoing insecurity and social discrimination further complicate their reintegration into local economies (Bello & Musa, 2024). There is a need for a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and effectiveness of reintegration programs to enhance the economic stability of IDPs.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To evaluate the economic reintegration process of IDPs in Maiduguri.

2. To assess the effectiveness of government and non-governmental reintegration programs.

3. To identify challenges hindering IDPs' economic reintegration.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How effective are economic reintegration programs for IDPs in Maiduguri?

2. What are the key challenges affecting the economic reintegration of IDPs?

3. What strategies can enhance the economic reintegration of IDPs?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

1. Economic reintegration programs have a significant impact on the livelihoods of IDPs in Maiduguri.

2. Limited access to capital and vocational training negatively affects IDPs’ reintegration.

3. Strengthened policy frameworks can improve the economic reintegration of IDPs.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study will provide insights for policymakers, humanitarian organizations, and development agencies working on IDP reintegration. The findings will highlight the effectiveness of existing programs and offer recommendations for improving economic stability among IDPs. Additionally, the study will contribute to academic discussions on displacement and reintegration in conflict-affected regions.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on IDPs in Maiduguri Local Government Area, Borno State. It does not extend to other LGAs or other forms of displacement unrelated to conflict.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

• Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Individuals forced to leave their homes due to conflict, violence, or disasters but remain within their country.

• Economic Reintegration: The process of restoring displaced individuals to self-sufficiency through employment, business support, and financial inclusion.

• Livelihood Support: Programs designed to provide IDPs with income-generating activities and skills training.

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