Study of Internal Displacement Patterns and Welfare Consequences in Zamfara State

Bandit-induced displacement in Zamfara State has created a significant internal humanitarian and demographic crisis, and documenting its patterns and welfare consequences provides evidence for response and recovery planning. This study assessed the causes, patterns, and socioeconomic consequences of internal displacement among households in Maru, Tsafe, and Bungudu Local Government Areas, Zamfara State. A cross-sectional survey of 300 displaced and host community households collected data on displacement trigger, duration, origin community, food access, health, children's schooling, and livelihood status. Bandit attacks were the primary displacement cause in 83.3 percent of displaced households. Mean displacement duration was 18.4 months. School attendance among displaced children was 41.2 percent, compared to 73.8 percent among non-displaced host community children. Food insecurity affected 78.7 percent of displaced households. Agricultural land loss was cited by 72.7 percent as the most significant livelihood impact. Recommendations include a Zamfara State Internal Displacement Response Plan, protection of displaced civilians' access to education and health services, and a return and reintegration programme linked to security stabilisation in affected LGAs.

Keywords: internal displacement, Zamfara State, banditry, humanitarian crisis, livelihoods These findings call for urgent protection, education, and livelihood restoration measures aligned with a formal Zamfara State Internal Displacement Response Plan. Re-establishing community livelihoods and education access must be prioritised alongside security stabilisation.