CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS’ CRISIS IN NORTH-EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the various conflict management strategies undertaken by the government to improve the lives of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in North-East Nigeria between 2019 and 2024. It also assessed the effectiveness of conflict management strategies implemented between 2019 and 2024 in enhancing the living conditions and security of IDPs in North-East Nigeria.  As well as Identifying the key challenges faced by IDPs in accessing resettlement and reintegration programs in North-East Nigeria from 2019 to 2024. Persistent insecurity from armed groups, inadequate funding, corruption, and the inability to reach certain areas due to terrain and ongoing conflict have posed significant challenges to implementing these strategies effectively. Data from 2019 to 2020 showed that the living conditions in IDP camps were bedeviled by overcrowded shelters, inadequate healthcare, and food insecurity. By 2022, interventions led by UNHCR and the Nigerian government improved shelter and healthcare services, though food security remained a significant concern The study concludes that the approaches to conflict management  such as  peace building, community engagement efforts  and attempts at addressing the socioeconomic factors fueling conflicts, early warning systems and community-based conflict resolution mechanisms are not strong and comprehensive enough to effectively manage conflicts  or prevent conflicts. It was recommended that community engagements and gender sensitivity should be employed in conflict management. There should be regular monitoring and evaluation of implemented strategies to identify gaps and areas for improvement. Government should also improve security around IDP camps and host communities by deploying trained security personnel and enhancing local intelligence networks to prevent attacks by insurgents