Project – An evaluation of the effectiveness of government and non-government organization in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria. 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The issue of internal displacement in Nigeria, particularly in the western region, has garnered significant attention due to the socio-political and economic challenges it presents. Internally displaced persons (IDPs), especially women, face unique vulnerabilities that necessitate targeted interventions. Government and non-government organizations (NGOs) have been at the forefront of providing support to these women, but the effectiveness of their efforts remains a subject of ongoing evaluation. According to a study by Akinyemi and Isiugo-Abanihe (2014), the Nigerian government has implemented various policies aimed at addressing the needs of IDPs, including the establishment of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). However, the effectiveness of these policies is often hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and inadequate funding.

Non-government organizations have played a crucial role in filling the gaps left by government interventions. NGOs such as the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society have been instrumental in providing immediate relief and long-term support to internally displaced women. These organizations offer a range of services, including healthcare, education, and vocational training, aimed at empowering women and improving their quality of life. A report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) (2018) highlights the success of these initiatives, noting that women who participate in NGO programs are more likely to achieve economic independence and social integration.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. One significant issue is the lack of coordination between government and non-government organizations, which often leads to duplication of efforts and inefficient use of resources. A study by Olajide (2016) found that while both entities aim to support internally displaced women, their lack of collaboration results in fragmented service delivery. This fragmentation can hinder the overall effectiveness of support programs, leaving many women without the comprehensive assistance they need. The study suggests that improved coordination and communication between government and NGOs could enhance the impact of their interventions.

Another critical factor affecting the effectiveness of support programs is the cultural context in which they are implemented. In many parts of western Nigeria, traditional gender roles and societal norms can limit the participation of women in these programs. According to Ezeh and Gage (2017), cultural barriers often prevent women from accessing education and vocational training opportunities provided by NGOs. These barriers can be mitigated through community engagement and sensitization efforts that involve local leaders and stakeholders in the design and implementation of support programs.

The sustainability of support programs is also a concern. Many initiatives rely heavily on external funding, which can be unpredictable and subject to change. A study by Adeola and Oluyemi (2019) emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable funding models that can ensure the continuity of support programs for internally displaced women. This could involve partnerships with private sector entities and the development of income-generating activities that can provide ongoing financial support for these initiatives.

Further, while both government and non-government organizations have made significant strides in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria, there is still much work to be done. The effectiveness of these efforts can be enhanced through improved coordination, cultural sensitivity, and sustainable funding models. Future research should focus on identifying best practices and developing frameworks that can guide the implementation of more effective support programs. By addressing these challenges, it is possible to create a more supportive environment for internally displaced women, enabling them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.

• Statement of the Problem

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, particularly women, face numerous challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability. The displacement crisis in Western Nigeria has been driven by various factors, including ethnic conflicts, insurgency, and natural disasters. Women, who often bear the brunt of these crises, face unique challenges such as gender-based violence, lack of access to healthcare, and economic instability. Despite the efforts of both government and non-government organizations (NGOs) to address these issues, there is a significant gap in understanding the effectiveness of these interventions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these organizations in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria, focusing on their ability to provide essential services and improve the overall well-being of these women.

Government interventions in supporting internally displaced women in Western Nigeria have been met with mixed results. While there have been efforts to provide temporary shelters, food, and medical care, the sustainability and adequacy of these interventions remain questionable. According to a report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC, 2020), many government-run IDP camps are overcrowded and lack basic amenities, which exacerbates the plight of displaced women. Furthermore, bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption often hinder the effective distribution of resources, leaving many women without the necessary support to rebuild their lives. This study seeks to critically assess the extent to which government initiatives have been successful in addressing the needs of internally displaced women and identify areas for improvement.

Non-government organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in supplementing government efforts to support internally displaced women. These organizations often provide specialized services such as psychosocial support, vocational training, and legal assistance, which are essential for the rehabilitation and empowerment of displaced women. However, the effectiveness of these NGOs varies widely, depending on factors such as funding, organizational capacity, and collaboration with local communities. A study by Olanrewaju et al. (2019) highlights that while some NGOs have made significant strides in improving the lives of internally displaced women, others struggle with limited resources and lack of coordination with government agencies. This research aims to evaluate the impact of NGO interventions and identify best practices that can be scaled up to enhance support for internally displaced women.

One of the critical issues faced by internally displaced women in Western Nigeria is gender-based violence (GBV). Both government and non-government organizations have implemented various programs to address GBV, but the prevalence of such violence remains alarmingly high. According to a report by Human Rights Watch (2021), many displaced women continue to experience sexual violence, exploitation, and abuse, both within and outside IDP camps. This study will examine the effectiveness of existing GBV prevention and response programs, exploring the challenges and successes of these initiatives in providing a safe environment for internally displaced women.

Access to healthcare is another significant challenge for internally displaced women in Western Nigeria. Displacement often disrupts access to essential health services, including maternal and reproductive healthcare. Government and non-government organizations have made efforts to provide healthcare services to displaced populations, but these efforts are often hampered by inadequate infrastructure, lack of medical supplies, and insufficient healthcare personnel. A study by Okeke et al. (2020) found that many internally displaced women face barriers to accessing healthcare, resulting in poor health outcomes. This research will evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare interventions and propose strategies to improve healthcare access for internally displaced women.

Economic instability is a pervasive issue for internally displaced women, who often lose their livelihoods and face significant barriers to economic opportunities. Government and non-government organizations have implemented various programs aimed at economic empowerment, such as vocational training and microfinance initiatives. However, the success of these programs in achieving sustainable economic stability for displaced women remains uncertain. According to a report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM, 2019), many women struggle to find stable employment and generate income, which hinders their ability to achieve self-sufficiency. This study will assess the effectiveness of economic empowerment programs and identify factors that contribute to their success or failure in supporting internally displaced women.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of government and non-government organization in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria. The specific objectives are:

1. Assess the level of government support provided to internally displaced women in western Nigeria.
2. Evaluate the effectiveness of non-government organizations in addressing the needs of internally displaced women in the region.
3. Identify the challenges faced by internally displaced women in accessing support services from the government.
4. Compare the impact of government and non-government organization support on the well-being of internally displaced women.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the level of government support provided to internally displaced women in western Nigeria?
2. How effective are non-government organizations in addressing the needs of internally displaced women in the region?
3. What are the challenges faced by internally displaced women in accessing support services from the government?
4. What is the impact of government and non-government organization support on the well-being of internally displaced women?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: The government and non-government organization does not support the well-being of internally displaced women

H1: The government and non-government organization support the well-being of internally displaced women.

• Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in the importance of understanding the effectiveness of government and non-government organizations in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria. By evaluating the support provided by these entities, we can gain insights into the challenges faced by internally displaced women and identify areas for improvement in the services offered to them. This research will contribute to the existing literature on humanitarian assistance and women’s rights in conflict-affected regions.

Furthermore, this study will provide valuable information for policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders involved in providing support to internally displaced women. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of current support systems, decision-makers can make informed decisions on how to better address the needs of this vulnerable population. This research has the potential to lead to policy changes that can improve the well-being and quality of life of internally displaced women in western Nigeria.

Additionally, this study will help raise awareness about the challenges faced by internally displaced women in accessing support services from both government and non-government organizations. By shedding light on these issues, we can advocate for better resources and support for this marginalized group. This research has the potential to spark conversations and actions that can lead to positive changes in the way internally displaced women are supported in the region.

Moreover, by comparing the impact of government and non-government organization support on the well-being of internally displaced women, this study can provide valuable insights into which types of interventions are most effective. This information can guide future programming and resource allocation to ensure that the needs of internally displaced women are met in the most efficient and impactful way possible. This research has the potential to inform best practices in humanitarian assistance and contribute to the overall improvement of support services for internally displaced women in conflict-affected regions.

This study is significant because it addresses a critical gap in the literature on the effectiveness of government and non-government organizations in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria. By examining the support provided to this vulnerable population, we can better understand the challenges they face and work towards improving the services available to them. This research has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the lives of internally displaced women and contribute to the broader conversation on humanitarian assistance and women’s rights in conflict-affected regions.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines “an evaluation of the effectiveness of government and non-government organization in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria”. A case study of Pankshin LGC in Plateau State.

• Operational Definition of Terms

1. Evaluation: This refers to the systematic assessment of the design, implementation, and outcomes of a project, program, or policy. The goal of an evaluation is to determine its effectiveness, efficiency, and impact. Evaluations can be formative (conducted during the development of a program) or summative (conducted after the program has been implemented).
2. Effectiveness: This term describes the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result. In the context of programs or interventions, effectiveness measures how well the objectives are being met and the extent to which the intended outcomes are achieved.
3. Government Organization: A government organization is an entity that is part of the public sector and is created by a government to carry out specific functions. These organizations can operate at various levels, including local, regional, and national, and they are typically funded by taxpayer money. Examples include public schools, police departments, and health agencies.
4. Non-Government Organization (NGO): An NGO is a non-profit, voluntary citizens’ group that is organized on a local, national, or international level. NGOs perform a variety of service and humanitarian functions, bring citizen concerns to governments, advocate for specific causes, and encourage political participation. They are independent of government control, although they may receive government funding.
5. Supporting: In this context, supporting refers to providing assistance, resources, or advocacy to help a particular group or cause. This can include financial aid, services, training, or other forms of support aimed at improving the well-being of the target group.
6. Internally Displaced Women: These are women who have been forced to flee their homes but remain within their country’s borders. Internal displacement can be caused by conflict, natural disasters, or other crises. Internally displaced women often face unique challenges, including heightened vulnerability to violence, limited access to resources, and disrupted social networks.

Project – An evaluation of the effectiveness of government and non-government organization in supporting internally displaced women in western Nigeria.