Challenges of United Nations High Commission for Refugee (UNHCR) in the Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS) in Northeastern Nigeria, 2009-2023

Abstract

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has been involved in protecting the North-East with other humanitarian bodies at domestic and international levels. Despite the concerted efforts of UNHCR, internal displacement persists in the Northeastern Nigeria. This study, therefore, examined the challenges of United Nations High Commission for Refugee (UNHCR) in the assistance of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in northeastern Nigeria, 2009-2023. In doing this, Human Needs theory was adopted for the purpose of this paper. Questionnaire, interview and secondary sources such as books and journals were used. The study revealed that the IDPs have not been adequately assisted because of certain challenges faced by the UNHCR, including lack of reliable data, unclear policies and institutions, corruption by government officials, inadequate funding and security challenge among others. Thus, the paper recommended among others that stiffer penalties, including long term imprisonment, should be meted out to any responder caught diverting relief materials meant for the IDPs by the concerned authorities to serve as deterrence to others. Likewise, all the tiers of governments in the affected states and other stakeholders, including private sectors, international organizations, and civil society organizations should be more committed to alleviating the plight of the IDPs through improved funding.