Аннотация
The persistent and escalating communal clashes in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region have emerged as a significant security and humanitarian concern, with profound implications for regional stability and socio-economic development. This study investigates the complex interplay between the frequency, severity, ethnic and religious composition, resource disputes, socio-economic conditions, and perceptions of insecurity that drive displacement, particularly focusing on refugee flows into Southeast Nigeria. Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilizes content analysis of policy documents, media reports, scholarly articles, and reports from NGOs to explore these dynamics in depth. Guided by the Conflict Theory, which emphasizes structural inequalities and resource competition as core conflict drivers, the research aims to understand how these factors contribute to displacement patterns. The findings reveal that recurrent conflicts and their severity significantly increase the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees, with conflict-prone zones such as Plateau and Benue experiencing exponential displacement growth. Ethno-religious tensions, resource scarcity, and socio-economic deprivation exacerbate conflict persistence and displacement, while perceptions of insecurity often trigger pre-emptive movements that further inflate displacement figures. The influx of over 1.2 million IDPs into southeastern states over recent years has strained resources, heightened social tensions, and complicated peace efforts. The study underscores that existing interventions are largely reactive and insufficient, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies that address root causes, promote inclusive governance, resource management reforms, and community-based peace building. It recommends the development of early warning systems incorporating perceptions of insecurity, increased community engagement, land reforms, and socio-economic development initiatives to foster sustainable peace. Addressing these interconnected factors is vital for reducing displacement, enhancing regional stability, and ensuring Nigeria’s long-term socio-economic resilience.