State Fragility Theory and the Sustainability of Humanitarian Aid in IDP Camps in Benue State, Nigeria

Conflicts between herders and farmers have remained a recurrent insecurity problem that has partly rendered Nigerian largely unsafe and labelled it as a failing state. The persistent nature of these conflicts has provoked studies purposely aimed at tackling the conflicts, which have greatly displaced many Nigerians in Benue State. Humanitarian camps were part of humanitarian aid (including food, healthcare, respect for human rights, shelter and water, etc.) that serve as a response to the emergency situation triggered by the Fulani herder-farmer conflicts in Benue State. Although humanitarian aid often draws commendation and attention, it also raises suspicion about utility value and sustainability of these IDP camps. Drawing on qualitative method and state fragility theory, this article examined the sustainability or adequacy of humanitarian aid in IDP camps in Benue State, Nigeria. The findings expanded discussions on the dimensions of humanitarian crises and the potentials of a swift government's response in achieving positive humanitarian outcomes. The findings also suggested means through which the Nigerian government can optimise effective governance of IDP camps in ways that aid strategic efforts at the sustainability of humanitarian aid in IDP camps in Benue State, Nigeria.