Area-based assessment on returns, relocations and selected settlements in Borno State-Nigeria (GSSSS IDP Camp and Soye Resetlement in Bama LGA)

CONTEXT

The ongoing conflict in Northeast Nigeria has led to a complex humanitarian crisis. According to the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) for Nigeria round 43, over 2.2 million people remain internally displaced and urgently need assistance in Borno — 1.8 million or 82%, Adamawa —224,000 or 10%, and Yobe —167,000 or 8% (BAY) states. Moreover, around 1.7 million people have returned to their areas of origin or nearby camps since August 2015, suggesting that conditions in some locations have improved. Borno State Government has relocated around 287,000 IDPs to their area of origin. The Borno State Government (BSG) has expressed its intent to close all camps in the state by 2027, aiming to find lasting solutions by the return of IDPs closer to their place of origin or supporting them to resettle in host communities or other communities.
In light of this development, conducting this area-based assessments in Borno State is crucial. A thorough analysis of the target population's geographical distribution, movement patterns, and living conditions is essential to identify and prioritise the most pressing needs. Assessing the economic and social aspects of reintegration, including livelihood opportunities and community dynamics, will further contribute to developing targeted interventions that address the unique needs of different population groups.
Assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of the current humanitarian assistance and protection programs, as well as the legal and policy frameworks governing relocations, resettlements, and returns, is necessary to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and that IDPs' rights to dignified lives and well-being are protected. Identifying gaps, challenges, and areas for improvement will enable humanitarian partners, as well as the Government, to enhance their efforts and develop more informed strategies for addressing the returnee situation. This will contribute to developing durable solutions, ultimately promoting the well-being and sustainable reintegration of returnees, and relocated individuals in Borno State.