An Assessment of Internally Displaced Persons’ [IDPs] Needs in Flood Prone Areas of Kogi State

Abstract

Purpose: The devastating effect of flooding has led to associated serious problems and socio-economic implications. Displaced people are faced with being over-crowded in camps with the attendant consequences which include displaced children facing many dangers, especially if they have become separated from their families. Poor nutrition, poor sanitary conditions and inability to access health services make displaced persons prey to a host of diseases, most of which could be preventable. The study aim is to identify the socio-economic impacts resulting to devastating flood among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria. Methodology: A cross sectional study involving 4 IDP camps in Kogi State. Information on social, economic and health impacts of the devastation was collected and data analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. A total of 660 respondents (100%) were interviewed in the study. The mean age was 37.1 years and 31.9% of respondents completed secondary school education. Majority were farmers (77.3%). Of the 357 (54.09%) who had children in school before the occurrence of the disaster, only 168 (25.46%) had children in school after the flooding. Over 61.4% lost their job, 51.2% were at risk of infectious diseases and 44.35% felt insecure in the camp. Only 19.72% IDPs had access to insecticide treated net. Findings: This study shows that IDPs face diverse challenges including food shortages, threats to health, financial constraints and psychological trauma as well as poor access to educational facilities for the children involved. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Government should ensure that necessary facilities, first aid treatment and urgent medical treatment should never be denied to any internal displacement persons, regardless of the camps. To make funds available for the management of IDPs in Nigeria governments should solicit for donations and financial aids from more international bodies. They should also collaborate with more international humanitarian organizations for assistant.