ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COPING MECHANISM AMONG IDP IN HOST COMMUNITIES OF MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN COUNCIL AREA OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Halima Lami Bello (PhD) , Falmata, Mukhtar (PhD) and Mohammed Ali Mechanic (PhD)
Volume 5 Issue 2
Abstract
In the wake of persistent armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has surged globally, with Nigeria’s Borno State emerging as a focal point due to the Boko Haram insurgency. This study assesses the factors influencing the effectiveness of coping mechanisms among IDPs residing in host communities in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council. Adopting a survey design, the research draws on data from 381 IDP households to evaluate both structural and individual determinants of coping. The analysis was carried out by the use regression analysis. The study identifies access to humanitarian aid, healthcare services, strong social support networks, access to capital, and vocational training as significant positive predictors of coping effectiveness. Conversely, discrimination was found to negatively affect coping, while factors like host community support and exposure to insecurity showed no statistically significant influence. These findings underscore the importance of material and psychosocial support in fostering resilience among displaced populations. The study advocates for a multidimensional policy approach that integrates mental health services, livelihood empowerment, inclusive community engagement, and anti-discrimination frameworks. It further highlights the need for sustainable recovery strategies that transcend emergency relief, enabling IDPs to rebuild their lives with dignity, agency, and long-term resilience. Keywords: Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Coping Mechanisms, Humanitarian Aid, Displacement Recovery, Borno State.
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