IOM Nigeria March 2025 Displacement Report: Trends in Northeast Nigeria

The IOM’s March 2025 report on northeast Nigeria reveals 2,252,348 IDPs, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.1% since the previous assessment. In contrast, the number of returnees rose to 2,129,325, marking an increase of over 1%. Humanitarian access remains limited in certain areas, impacting displacement figures. The report highlights ongoing complexities in the region’s displacement dynamics and the potential for return.

The IOM Nigeria Displacement Tracking Matrix report for March 2025 details assessment results from Round 49, covering the period from October to November 2024. This evaluation highlights the situation in the six states of Nigeria’s northeast, notably Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe, which are significantly affected by ongoing conflict.

In Round 49, a total of 2,252,348 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were identified across 465,935 households, indicating a marginal decrease of 0.1 percent (3,247 individuals) from the previous round. Over the last year, IDP numbers have also reduced by less than one percent, underscoring persistent instability in the region. Despite these figures, humanitarian access remains limited, particularly in the LGAs of Kukawa, Kala/Balge, and Guzamala in Borno State, potentially leading to underreported displacement numbers.

The assessment in Round 49 included evaluations at 2,254 locations, comprising 259 camps and camp-like settlements, alongside 1,995 instances where IDPs resided in host communities. This comprehensive analysis aims to enhance understanding of the intricate dynamics and displacement trends in this conflict-affected zone.

Moreover, the report notes a rise in the number of returnees, with 2,129,325 individuals recorded, an increase of 18,848 or more than one percent from Round 48. This upward trend indicates a gradual return to areas of origin within the BAY states (Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe), suggesting evolving patterns in displacement and resettlement in the region.

The IOM report illustrates a complex picture of displacement in northeast Nigeria for early 2025. While there is a slight decrease in IDPs, the persistent high numbers, coupled with limited access for humanitarian assistance, indicate an enduring crisis. Conversely, there is a notable increase in returnees, suggesting some individuals are beginning to return to their original communities. This report emphasizes the need for ongoing attention and intervention in the region to address humanitarian needs and support rebuilding efforts.

Original Source: reliefweb.int