HUMANITARIAN PROBLEMS AMONG WOMEN IN INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) CAMPS: A STUDY OF WOMEN DISPLACED BY BOKO HARAM INSURGENCY IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

The study investigated the humanitarian problems among women living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, particularly those displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency. The objectives of the study were to examine the place of gender in the provision of welfare to IDPs, identify the problems faced by women in IDP camps, and analyze the human needs and development issues affecting them. The study adopted a survey research design. The population consisted of women living in selected IDP camps in Maiduguri, and a sample size of 258 respondents was selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages. The findings revealed that women in IDP camps face numerous humanitarian challenges including rape, inadequate maternal healthcare, lack of menstrual hygiene materials, poor nutrition, and limited access to basic services. The study concluded that women in IDP camps are highly vulnerable and require more protection and support from government and humanitarian agencies. The study recommended improved welfare services, better protection mechanisms, and provision of basic needs for displaced women.