The IOM’s Round 49 DTM report for northeast Nigeria indicates 2,252,348 IDPs in late 2024, marking a slight decrease from the previous round. Conversely, returnees increased to 2,129,325. Access restrictions in key areas continue to challenge the accuracy of displacement data. Overall, the report shows both a challenge amid ongoing conflict and a trend toward return in the region, particularly in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
This report details the outcomes from Round 49 of the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) assessments, which occurred between October and November 2024, focusing on the six most affected states in northeast Nigeria: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe. The findings indicate a total of 2,252,348 internally displaced persons (IDPs) identified across 465,935 households, reflecting a marginal decrease of 0.1 percent, equivalent to 3,247 individuals, compared to Round 48.
The report highlights that since the escalation of conflict in October 2018, certain areas in Borno State, including Kukawa, Kala/Balge, and Guzamala, have remained largely inaccessible to humanitarian organizations. This prolonged inaccessibility suggests that actual displacement figures may be significantly higher than those reported, as the number of IDPs has continued to rise despite these challenges.
In total, assessments were conducted at 2,254 locations during Round 49, which comprised 259 camps and camp-like settlements, as well as 1,995 areas where IDPs reside within host communities. The objective of these assessments was to gain an enhanced understanding of displacement dynamics and trends within the conflict-affected region.
The report also indicates that the number of returnees reached 2,129,325, marking an increase of 18,848 individuals, or over one percent, from Round 48, where 2,110,477 returnees were documented. This contrast indicates a positive trend toward individuals returning to their places of origin in the BAY states (Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe) despite the slight decrease in IDP numbers.
The findings from Round 49 of the Displacement Tracking Matrix reveal a slight decline in the number of IDPs in northeast Nigeria while the number of returnees has risen. Despite challenges facing humanitarian access, the data suggests that individuals are beginning to return to their home areas. Continued monitoring and assessment of displacement trends remain essential for understanding the humanitarian situation in the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
