Author(s) :

JANADA Agwana.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study critically examines the relationship between humanitarian assistance and women and child vulnerability conflict affected environments, with a particular emphases on the experiences of women and juveniles in Borno State, Nigeria, between 2013 and 2023. Over the past decade, Borno State has experience a protracted armed conflict, largely due to the Boko Haram insurgency, leading to widespread displacement, insecurity, and humanitarian crises. Women and juveniles have borne the brunt of these challenges, facing heightened risks of sexual and gender-based violence, exploitation, forced recruitment, economic marginalization, and disruption of essential services such as education and healthcare. Using a mixed-methods research design, the study combines qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys across three local government areas—Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Monguno, and Gwoza—to explore how humanitarian interventions have responded to the specific vulnerabilities of these groups. Guided by Human Security Theory and Social Vulnerability Theory, the research uncovers structural and operational constraints—such as insecurity, limited access, logistical difficulties, and sociocultural barriers—that impede the effective delivery of aid. The findings reveal a significant gap between the needs of women and juveniles and the reach of current humanitarian responses. The study underscores the importance of adopting gender-sensitive, youth-inclusive, and context-specific strategies to enhance the effectiveness, equity, and sustainability of humanitarian aid. It recommends strengthening institutional frameworks, community participation, and long-term resilience-building measures to support conflict-affected populations. This research contributes to both academic discourse and policy formulation by offering a nuanced understanding of humanitarian assistance in protracted conflict settings, particularly as it affects vulnerable populations in Northeast Nigeria.

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