Insecurity in Nigeria and challenges of educating internally displaced persons: a study of selected states in north central Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated insecurity and implications on the education of Internally Displaced Persons in North-Central Nigeria. The study adopted a Survey Research Design. Twenty-four (24) questionnaires items were derived from five (5) research questions and statements of hypotheses. Questionnaires designed were administered on one hundred and sixty (160) respondents and analyzed using descriptive statistical tools, t-test and ANOVA at 0.5 level of significance. The results of the investigation showed prevalence of violence in North-central Nigeria and this is consequent upon injustice, corruption, marginalization, greed, unemployment, neglect both on the part of government and individuals on whose shoulders the task of governance lie to take responsibility. This has negatively affected student’s enrolment in North-Central Nigeria. This failure has affected the development of both the human capital and socio-economic and political development of Nigeria. The study also showed gross neglect of the educational needs of the internally displaced persons because such resources are channeled to maintain peace and order. Also, sexual harassment and early marriage are common among female IDPs and high rate of school dropout among the male students. Based on the findings therefore, government especially should be pro-active in tackling security problems by not only good governance but also introduction and promotion of security education and harmonious living among the people. Above all, modalities on the reintegration of the IDPs into the wider society should be a major policy thrust of the state.