THE IMPACT OF FORCED DISPLACEMENT ON PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT IN ADAMAWA STATE, NORTH-EAST NIGERIA

By

Heman Johnson

Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution

National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explores the impact of forced displacement on peace and development in Adamawa State, North-East Nigeria. Forced displacement, driven by conflict and environmental factors, disrupts livelihoods and exacerbates social and economic instability. The study examines its socio-economic effects, contributing factors, and strategies employed to mitigate its consequences. Adopting a survey design, both quantitative and qualitative methods were used, including questionnaires, focus group discussions, and secondary data analysis. A sample of 400 respondents was selected using purposive and stratified random sampling, with 293 valid responses. Findings reveal that displacement leads to loss of livelihoods, limited access to education and healthcare, inadequate housing, and social integration challenges. Key drivers include violent conflicts, insecurity, land disputes, climate change, weak governance, and ethnic tensions. Efforts to address displacement involve government agencies, humanitarian organisations, traditional leaders, and security forces. The study concludes that forced displacement significantly undermines peace and development, contributing to insecurity issues such as banditry, insurgency, and farmer-herder conflicts. It recommends that the Adamawa State Government collaborate with the Nigeria Meteorological Agency to implement an early warning system for disaster preparedness. Additionally, the state should strengthen governance, promote inclusive policies, and prioritise local peacebuilding initiatives to foster coexistence between displaced persons and host communities.