Navigating Crisis: Understanding Patterns and Scale of Forced Migration in Greater Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria (2014-2019)

Abstract

This study investigates the dynamics of forced migration driven by the Boko Haram insurgency into greater Yola from 2014 to 2019. Combining primary data from questionnaires and interviews with secondary records from the International Organization for Migration, the research unveils that over 70% of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Greater Yola were propelled by the Boko Haram conflict. Notably, a peak in IDP influx occurred in July/August 2016, exceeding 140,000 individuals. The predominant trend observed is direct migration to Greater Yola, underlining the urgency and severity of security concerns linked to the insurgency. The study also highlights strategic step-wise migration among certain local government areas, emphasizing the adaptive nature of displacement patterns. These findings contribute vital insights for policymakers and humanitarian efforts grappling with the intricate challenges of forced migration. The study recommends bolstered security measures to facilitate the return of IDPs to their native regions, addressing the root cause of displacement