Nigeria's Forgotten People: Who Are the Displaced?

Nigeria is grappling with a significant crisis. A large number of people are being forced to flee their homes. But who are these individuals? What compels them to leave? The truth remains largely unknown.

The Challenge of Data

Official records do not provide information about the religious beliefs of the displaced. This lack of data makes it difficult to comprehend the full scope of the issue.

Research Findings

Some researchers suspect that a significant number of these displaced individuals are Christians. They attribute this to targeted violence against this religious group. However, without official data, they had to resort to alternative methods.

Alternative Data Sources

Researchers turned to the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa for data on religion-based killings. Using this information, they estimated the number of Christians forced to leave their homes in 2023.

Key Findings

• Targeted Violence: The study suggests that Christians in Nigeria are often displaced due to targeted violence.
• Affected States: States like Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara have the largest gaps, while Borno and Taraba have the highest number of displaced individuals.

Limitations of the Study

It's important to note that these findings are estimates. The study relies on patterns and assumptions rather than exact data. It serves as a starting point rather than a definitive answer.

The Need for Better Data

The study highlights the significant role of religious persecution in displacement. However, it also underscores the need for better data to fully understand and address the problem.