Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Displacement, Educational Attainment, and Strengthening Governance for IDPs in Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

The Boko Haram uprising in Nigeria has resulted in one of the most untainted humanitarian crises in the North-Eastern states, leading to the displacement of millions of citizens, including children. This has disrupted the education sector in Borno State, where internally displaced persons have limited access to education. This study sought to investigate the impact of displacement on education in Mafa IDP Camp, one of the largest IDP camps in Borno State, Nigeria. This study employed a mixed research approach, where quantitative and qualitative methods were employed. A total population of 135 was sampled, with a sample size of 48 respondents. It sought to investigate the challenges that internally displaced persons face in accessing education in the IDP Camp. According to the Ecological Systems Theory and Human Capital Theory, these challenges affect the education of internally displaced persons. This study sought to investigate how these challenges affect the education of internally displaced persons in Mafa IDP Camp and how governance can play a significant role in resolving these issues. Despite the efforts made by the Nigerian government and other non-governmental organizations in creating opportunities and supporting internally displaced persons in
accessing education, the study established that these efforts are not enough, particularly due to funding, security, and funding issues. This study, therefore, recommended that there is a need to improve governance in education in IDP Camps, particularly in Mafa, in order to ensure that internally displaced persons have the right to education. By prioritizing education, the Nigerian government can ensure that internally displaced persons in Borno State can have an improved future.