BOKO HARAM INSURGENCY AND INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMANITARIAN MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA.

Abstract

The Boko Haram insurgency has generated a protracted internal displacement crisis in Nigeria, particularly in the Northeast region, with serious implications for humanitarian management. Despite extensive national and international interventions, internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to face persistent vulnerabilities, reflecting gaps between policy frameworks and practical implementation. This study examines the relationship between Boko Haram insurgency and internal displacement, with a focus on its implications for humanitarian management in Nigeria. The study adopts a qualitative research design and relies on documentary sources of data, which are analysed using qualitative content analysis. The study is anchored on the Theory of Social Production of Material Wealth and Human Security Theory to explain the structural and human dimensions of displacement. Findings revealed that internal displacement is driven by a combination of violent insurgency, structural economic inequalities, weak institutional capacity, and emerging climate-related shocks. The study further showed that institutional inefficiencies, corruption, coordination challenges, and declining international funding support constrain humanitarian response mechanisms. The study concluded that effective humanitarian management in Nigeria requires institutional reform, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and the integration of human security and climate resilience approaches. It recommended legislative strengthening of IDP protection frameworks, improved coordination among humanitarian agencies, and the adoption of community-based and localised response strategies to ensure sustainable support for displaced populations.