AN EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION IN SUPPORTING INTERNALLY DISPLACED WOMEN IN WESTERN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Globally, humanity still faces the challenge of internal displacement and the humanitarian catastrophes that ensue everywhere in the world, despite the fact that it was hoped this would be solved after World War II. Subsequent to the aforementioned period, it is noteworthy to observe that the international community has persistently found itself entangled within relentless patterns of armed conflict, forced migration, and dire circumstances necessitating humanitarian intervention (Brigido et al., 2019; GRID, 2019).  In the context of developing countries, a significant obstacle arises in the form of integrating internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to the persistent acts of violence committed by insurgents within the nation. This presents a complex predicament that necessitates resolution in order to address the challenges faced by IDPs.  In his scholarly analysis of the concept of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Ladan (2016) adopts an international law framework to establish a comprehensive understanding and explicate the characteristics of IDPs.  According to Ladan, displaced persons can be defined as individuals or groups who have been forced or voluntarily chosen to leave their homes or usual places of residence as a result of armed conflict, violations of human rights, extensive violence, or occurrences of natural or man-made disasters. These individuals exhibit a strong inclination towards finding solace in a comparatively safe and protected environment, which may manifest either within the confines of their own nation's territorial boundaries as internally displaced persons, or by traversing an officially recognised state border as refugees.

 Consequently, these individuals frequently face marginalization and a dearth of acknowledgment from the communities hosting them. According to the findings of Jalili and Olanrewaju (2016), it has been observed that the most severe forms of malevolence involve exposing individuals to significant socio-economic challenges. These challenges encompass various aspects such as malnutrition, inadequate housing, unemployment, societal biases, instances of sexual misconduct, exploitation of child labour, early marriages, and the subsequent rise in adolescent pregnancies. In the current socio-cultural milieu, individuals are being confronted with a myriad of supplementary challenges within the confines of their camp, including but not limited to experiences of intimidation, humiliation, and various forms of social isolation. Furthermore, it has been argued by Adesote and Peters (2015) that the relocation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) exacerbates the already existing strain on limited social resources within the communities where they are being resettled. The resources under consideration encompass a diverse range of essential services that are vital for the well-being and functioning of a community. These services include but are not limited to housing, electricity, potable water, healthcare infrastructure, educational establishments, and market facilities. The present situation leads to an elevated level of competition between internally displaced individuals (IDPs) and their host communities, specifically concerning the distribution of resources, such as agricultural land.

Furthermore, according to the latest statistical data, it has been determined that Nigeria currently holds the distinction of having the highest population of displaced individuals within the African continent. The estimated number of such individuals stands at approximately 3.3 million people as of the year 2023, as reported by the International Displacement Monitoring System (IDMS, 2023). The data provided encompasses individuals who have undergone displacement due to a range of circumstances, including but not limited to the Boko Haram insurgency, community conflicts, flooding incidents, and ongoing conflicts between farmers and Fulani herders in the northeastern region.

Undoubtedly, it is well-established that women and girls experience an increased need for sexual and reproductive healthcare services during times of conflict. This heightened demand can be attributed to their heightened vulnerability to Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs), including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), unintended pregnancies, as well as maternal mortality and morbidity. The vulnerability under examination is derived from the manifestation of sexual violence that is rooted in gender-based dynamics. The provision of sexual and reproductive health services is widely acknowledged as a fundamental entitlement of individuals, firmly established as a core human right. The aforementioned right holds considerable significance within the framework of the 2030 Agenda, specifically in regards to the Sustainable Development Goals that focus on advancing the cause of optimal health and well-being, as well as striving for gender equality. Based on the findings of the 2016 NOI-Polls, it can be inferred that the health issues faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) can be primarily attributed to the constraints they encounter in terms of accessing nutritious food, regular meals, and sufficient healthcare services.

 Human Rights Watch (2016) has documented that women who are residing in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps are regularly subjected to various forms of sexual risks. This unfortunate reality serves to compound their already compromised state of health and contributes to an elevated mortality rate among women.The observed trend indicates that there is an increasing population of internally displaced women and girls who are susceptible to encountering notable health issues. This situation gives rise to concerns regarding the potential impact on the nation, as it may lead to a heightened burden (Olanrewaju,  Omotoso, &  Alabi, 2018a). Therefore, it is of utmost importance to conduct additional investigations pertaining to this subject.

Notwithstanding the diligent endeavour pursued by the Nigerian government in order to alleviate the violent endeavour of the insurgents, it is noteworthy that their operations have transcended the confines of the northeastern region and have encompassed Abuja and its surrounding areas. The observed inclination suggests that a considerable number of individuals could potentially face displacement if timely actions are not implemented to mitigate the actions of the insurgents.

1.2 Statement of the problem

 The issue of internally displaced persons (IDPs) resulting from armed violence continues to be a prominent feature in numerous African nations, with Nigeria being particularly affected (Okeke-Ihejirika et al., 2020). The phenomenon of displaced persons is characterized by their dispersion throughout the nation, resulting in the establishment of enduring internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. The ongoing humanitarian crisis has garnered significant attention from both governmental entities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), who have been actively involved in providing diverse forms of assistance to ensure the survival and well-being of these women. It is evident that women and girls experience a heightened need for sexual and reproductive healthcare services due to the mistreatment inflicted upon them by a minority of men within the camp. This unfortunate circumstance places additional burdens on these women, compelling them to struggle for survival and raise children in conditions that offer minimal sustenance.

Recognizing the significant influence exerted by internally displaced persons (IDPs) on the overall state of global security, researchers have undertaken efforts to discern the underlying factors and potential solutions. In this regard, scholars have identified a range of catalysts for internal displacement, including but not limited to poverty (Admasu et al., 2021), economic downturns, political turmoil, and armed conflicts (Dirikgil, 2022).  In light of the ongoing IDP crisis, the international community has implemented a range of protocols and frameworks aimed at effectively addressing and managing this complex issue. The management of the  Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Nigeria has been entrusted to two prominent government humanitarian agencies, namely the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) (National Emergency Management Agency, 2015). However, recent research conducted by Olanrewaju et al. (2018a) suggests that the efforts of these agencies have fallen short of anticipated outcomes.  The research conducted by Bamidele And Pikirayi (2023) has brought to light a significant deficiency in the level of coordination observed between government agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) when it comes to delivering humanitarian aid within the majority of internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. 

Curiously, despite the evident scholarly inquiries prompted by the circumstances surrounding internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the imperative to unravel this enigma and utilise its findings for the development of public policies and their implementation, existing research has regrettably overlooked the examination of the efficacy of governmental and non-governmental organisations in providing support to internally displaced women in western Nigeria. The available literature regarding support systems for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria is limited, particularly when it comes to the specific context of internally displaced women residing in the western IDP camp. The existing constraints imposed on aid agencies and other relevant stakeholders have the effect of restricting their operational capacities, thereby hindering their ability to deliver tailored assistance.

Upon this premise this study was conducted on an evaluation of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria

1.3  Objectives of the study

The objective of this study is focused on an evaluation of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria.  Other specific objectives includes

i.          To examine the plights  internally displaced  women in Western  Nigeria.

ii.        To ascertain support  provided  by  government  agencies and NGO’s in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria.

iii.      To find out the level of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria.

iv.      To investigate the challenges hindering the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria.

1.4       Research Questions

i.          What are  the plights  internally displaced  women in Western  Nigeria?

ii.        What are the support  provided  by  government  agencies and NGO’s in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria?

iii.      What is the level of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria?

v.        What are the challenges hindering the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria?

1.5       Research hypotheses

Ho: The  level of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria is low.

Hi:  The  level of the effectiveness of government and non-governmental organization in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria is high.

1.6       Significance of the study

The results of this study would offer valuable insights to psychological institutions and clinical psychologists aiming to provide therapeutic interventions for individuals affected by arm banditry, aiding them in effectively addressing the psychological impacts of these traumatic experiences. The present study aims to contribute valuable literature that can serve as a foundation for future researchers engaged in similar investigations. The inclusion of nongovernmental organisations in this study would yield valuable insights, particularly in the context of their collaboration with internally displaced persons (IDPs). The research will provide valuable insights for the NGO, enabling them to better understand and address the psychological challenges faced by individuals who have been displaced from their homes due to traumatic experiences. The study holds significant relevance for governmental entities, policy makers, and the general populace, as it delves into the historical progression of domestic terrorism within Nigeria. Specifically, it sheds light on the intricate interplay between corruption, ethno-political manipulation of resources, inadequate governance, poverty, and various forms of physical violence, all of which have contributed to the emergence and proliferation of terrorism in Nigeria. The present study aims to provide valuable insights to security operatives regarding the imperative of formulating a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy. This strategy is intended to effectively address the prevailing security challenges in the North East region, thereby mitigating the pervasive insecurity. The study, in a theoretical sense, will serve as a valuable reference for students and researchers alike within this particular field of study. Additionally, it aims to offer pertinent information to the general public and contribute to the availability of educational resources within libraries.

1.7       Scope of the Study

Owing that making an investigation like this is the whole northern Nigeria is broad, there is need  to delimit the study to researchable scope hence the researcher selected   Lagos State as one of the affected State by terrorism with a sizeable number of internal displaced person.

1.8 Limitation of the Study

During the course of the research,  few minor obstacles while conducting the study, just as in every scientific endeavour. Lack of literature on   insurgency and it's effect on socio-economic development of North East Nigeria  was a key barrier. Hence, locating the pertinent resources, books, or information and the data gathering procedure took a lot of effort and organization. Language was also a barrier as most resident of Borno had difficulties understanding the research instrument because it was presented in English Language, hence the use of limited sample size. Therefore accuracy of the result will totally base on the data provided to the researcher by the educated resident and the results of this study cannot be generalized for other North East state, leaving a space for further research. Time restrictions were also an issue because the researcher had to complete this research while still going to classes and performing other necessary educational tasks.  However all aspects were minimized in order to deliver the best results possible and ensure the success of the research, despite the limitations that were faced during the study.

1.9       Definition of terms

Terrorism:     Is the unofficial or unauthorized use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims as well as illegal use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government as well as the population civil, or part thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.

Insurgency: An insurgency is a violent, armed rebellion against authority when those taking part in the rebellion are not recognized as belligerents.

Internal displacement / Internally Displaced Persons: Internally displaced persons are "persons or groups of persons who have been forced or obliged to flee or to leave their homes or places of habitual residence, in particular as a result of or in order to avoid the effects of armed conflict, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights or natural or human-made disasters, and who have not crossed an internationally recognized State border.