Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo has called on federal and state authorities to take decisive action toward ending the long-standing use of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across Nigeria, advocating for permanent solutions that resettle displaced families back into secure and sustainable communities.
Banigo, a senator representing Rivers West, stressed that prolonged stays in IDP camps reflect a failure to restore normalcy and dignity to individuals uprooted by conflict, insecurity and natural disasters. She said it is crucial for government agencies and humanitarian partners to shift focus from temporary displacement shelters to durable housing, livelihood opportunities, and community reintegration for displaced Nigerians.
“I believe that the time has come for lasting solutions that allow displaced persons to return to their homes or resettle in safe environments where they can rebuild their lives,” Banigo said, adding that continued reliance on camps may leave vulnerable populations in a cycle of dependency and poverty.
Senator Banigo’s remarks highlight growing concern over the humanitarian situation facing IDPs, particularly in areas affected by insurgency and communal violence. Experts and policymakers have increasingly emphasised that temporary camps should not become indefinite settlements, and urged holistic government responses that prioritise security, infrastructure, education and economic inclusion for returnees.
Her call comes amid ongoing efforts by various Nigerian states to close some IDP camps and support voluntary returns, though challenges remain around security and basic services in many communities of origin.
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