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 Marie Courtoy | Apr 28, 2026
This ninth volume in our series on ‘Internal Displacement in a Changing World Order’ argues that international law is currently ill-suited to making human movement part of the solutions to climate change. It remains trapped in a palliative approach in the face of foreseeable risks, with a negative understanding of movement that limits the potential for positive adaptation. However, promoting adaptive mobility could minimise forced movement. Adaptive mobility can be individual, through sustainable solution options for those who decide to leave, or planned with the support of public authorities, subject to certain considerations and safeguards. The article proposes a conceptual evolution of human movements in international law to promote adaptive mobility and thus avoid displacement, while emphasising the need to consider the context in any (im)mobile adaptation measure.