THE IMPACT OF INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT DUE TO INSURGENCY ON WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA)

ABSTRACT This study examines the impact of internal displacement due to insurgency on women and children in Nigeria with particular reference to Borno State. The study was carried out to investigate the causes of insurgency in Nigeria, assess the effects of displacement on women and children, and identify the challenges faced by internally displaced persons in Borno State. Internal displacement has become one of the most pressing humanitarian issues in Nigeria due to the Boko Haram insurgency which has displaced millions of persons, especially women and children, from their homes and communities. The research adopted a descriptive survey method using both primary and secondary sources of data collection. Primary data were collected through questionnaires distributed to respondents, while secondary data were obtained from textbooks, journals, newspapers, and online materials. Findings revealed that insurgency has caused severe displacement leading to emotional trauma, loss of livelihood, poor access to healthcare, malnutrition, child abuse, interruption of education, sexual exploitation, and social discrimination against displaced women and children. The study concluded that internal displacement has negatively affected the socio-economic and psychological wellbeing of women and children in Borno State. The study recommends that the government and humanitarian agencies should provide adequate support, rehabilitation programs, security measures, and empowerment opportunities for internally displaced persons to improve their living conditions and restore hope among affected populations.