INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN BENUE STATE NORTH- CENTRAL NIGERIA: The Challenges of Rehabilitation and Reintegration

Throughout history, compulsory mass migrations have profoundly shaped the world we live in today. Forced displacement and large-scale movement of people have created significant humanitarian challenges. This paper explores the multifaceted challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue State, North Central Nigeria, with a focus on the processes of rehabilitation and reintegration. Although literature abound on IDP in Benue state, posit that limited attention has been given to the objective and subjective stance/facet of the rehabilitation and reintegration processes for returning IDPs to their communities. It is this yawning gap this study intends to fill. Nigeria's ongoing conflict with insurgency, conflict between nomadic herders and sedentary farmers, inter-communal violence conflict, and banditry has led to a significant displacement crisis, affecting millions. The study elicits its information gathering from secondary sources of data collection. Forced migration and social inclusion theories were adopted for the study. The findings reveal critical gaps in governmental and non-governmental interventions, highlighting issues such as inadequate funding, limited access to basic services, and weak coordination among stakeholders. Furthermore, the paper underscores the psychosocial impact of displacement, emphasizing the need for comprehensive mental health support. Structural challenges, including land disputes and economic instability, further complicate the reintegration process. The paper concludes with policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs and fostering sustainable reintegration of IDPs in Benue State. Through a holistic analysis, this study contributes to the broader discourse on displacement and offers actionable insights for improving the livelihoods of affected populations.