Resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria: the housing problems facing IDPs in Abuja camps and the risk of homelessness and secondary displacement

Abstract

ABSTRACT Internal displacement remains the worst humanitarian crisis facing Nigeria, with an estimated 2.7 million persons displaced in the North-East at the end of 2020 as a result of conflicts. Many of these internally displaced persons (IDPs) migrated to Abuja where they live in dilapidated homes and are at constant risk of becoming homeless because the government has no existing plan for IDPs’ resettlement. This study aimed to explore the housing challenges of IDPs in Abuja and how they can lead to secondary displacement. Data was collected from 38 IDPs using qualitative interviews and the collected data were analysed thematically with the aid of NVivo 12. Results revealed that the current housing conditions of the IDPs expose them to many diseases; the IDPs are at risk of secondary displacement which may endanger all the progress, development, and resilience build over the years. This points to a need for proper resettlement of the IDPs and highlights the need and roles of social workers in Nigeria. The study reveals how social workers can advocate for access to culture-sensitive and self-sustaining targeted resources, contribute to proper IDPs’ resettlement and reintegration, and influence the amendment and adoption of the 2003 National Policy on Internal Displacement.