Exploring the implications of forced displacement on sustainable development goals in Nigeria: Evidence from the lived experience of internally displaced persons in Maiduguri - Nigeria

Abstract

In the midst of rising displacement profile, Nigeria strives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) come 2030. This study aims to explore the implications of forced displacement on the SDGs. To understand the nexus, the study adopted a qualitative research design premised on the phenomenological approach. The study used the Kinetic Refugee theory and the Bio-ecological theory to explore the lived experience of IDPs in Maiduguri and its implication for the SDGs. Two IDP camps were selected for the study and data were collected from 68 participants. 58 participants were selected from the IDP women while 10 participants were sampled from camp officials. Semi-structured interview, Key Informant Interview and Focus Group Discussion were used for data collection. Thematic analysis was used in data analysis. The findings revealed participants dissatisfaction with the unstable supply of food. Also, neglect in the provision of “dignity kits” affected women’s health and hygiene and caused
difficulty with living in the camps. Participants linked the emergence of transactional sex in the IDP camps to these shortfalls in basic needs. Substance abuse was reported by participants as fallout of the phenomenon of transactional sex. The need for economic empowerment was strongly expressed by the participants as a sustainable way of meeting their daily needs. These
findings impact SDGs 1,2,3 and 8. Recommendations towards addressing the challenges include sufficient provision of basic needs cum feminine needs; introduction of sustainable economic empowerment schemes; and initiation of drug abuse campaigns amongst other measures.