SOFT LOAN: PERCEPTION AND UTILIZATION BY VULNERABLE INTERNALLY DISPLACED BAKASSI PEOPLE

Fifteen (15) years after displacement, Bakassi returnees in Akwa Ibom State communities are yet to be economically integrated. Having lost their identity, property and sense of livelihood, soft loans become necessary means of poverty alleviation. Studies have shown that returnees are vulnerable however they are responsible and capable of being economically viable. The objectives of the study include invetigation on the knowlegde, perception and problems that plague utilization of soft loans by Bakassi returness. In examining this, 286 respondents were randomly selected from six out of nine IDPs Camps. 26 IDIs and 29 KIIs were conducted for indepth insight. Findings have shown that Bakassi returnees knowledge of softloan is high however, accessibility is low and utilization poor. It is concluded from the study that IDBPs possess relevant attributes that could make it possible for them to access loans but have been deterred by several prohibitive factors including need for guarantor, recognition as a community member and fear of absconding after receiving loan. The study recommends that systematic and periodic awareness campaign through inspiring, motivating and re-awakening seminars should be organized in IDPs Camps to instigate and sustain interest in accessing and utilization of soft loans for improved livelihood.