Conflict induced internal displacement has caused over 2 million to be homeless across Nigeria with over 80% of the displaced population being women and children – with children accounting for the larger part of this population. While there appears to be a strong institutional framework to protect internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, the legal framework on which the institutions could thrive is relatively weak. The lack of a uniform approach in ensuring access to education among the displaced and nondisplaced calls for a proactive measure on the part of the Nigerian government in providing compulsory and free basic education to all children of school age without any form of discrimination on the societal status of the children
By Marius Olivier | Apr 30, 2026
In this tenth volume in our series on ‘Internal Displacement in a Changing World Order’, the author argues that there is a need to move beyond the narrow confines of the traditional life-cycle orientation of the social protection concept, which refers to, among others, health care needs, unemployment and retirement. Social protection should also be able to respond to climate change-related social, economic and climate risks, such as the loss of assets and livelihood opportunities, food insecurity and malnutrition, psychosocial support, and social and productive services. This is particularly important in low- and middle-income countries that often have weak social protection systems and which, despite the heterogeneity and diversity of their systems, continue to bear the brunt of displacement due to climate-related disasters.
