Traditional Institutions and SEMA Champion IDP Reintegration in Yobe State
By Muhammad Muhammad Maigari
Yobe state
The scars left by the Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria are deep and enduring, particularly for the millions displaced from their homes. In Yobe State, however, the tireless efforts of traditional institutions and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have become shining examples of resilience, hope, and recovery.
From 2015 to 2020, traditional rulers and SEMA worked side-by-side to facilitate the reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) back to their ancestral communities often in extremely challenging conditions.
Traditional Institutions: Anchors of Trust
Yobe’s traditional institutions, consisting of Emirs, District Heads, and village leaders, have long commanded deep respect among the people. In the wake of displacement, their role became even more critical.
Through community mobilization, sensitization campaigns, and peaceful advocacy, they reassured IDPs that their towns and villages were once again safe. They also used cultural and spiritual appeals to rekindle a sense of belonging among displaced populations.
“The traditional institution plays a significant role in reintegrating IDPs to their homes,” explained an Emir during an interview.
“We do it peacefully by encouraging, enlightening, and sometimes personally accompanying them to see the improvements in security.”
This grassroots approach proved invaluable. Trust was a scarce commodity after years of violence, and no government directive could replace the familiar voice of a respected traditional ruler.
Insights from the Emir of Damaturu
In an interview, the Emir of Damaturu explained the critical role traditional institutions played during the reintegration of IDPs:
“After years of insecurity, our people needed more than just physical rebuilding they needed emotional reassurance,” he said. “We engaged them directly through community visits, prayers, and dialogue, showing them that their homes were safe again.”
The Emir further explained that traditional rulers acted as trusted voices, bridging the gap between government efforts and community fears. His leadership, marked by personal outreach and cultural sensitivity, helped rebuild trust and encouraged thousands of displaced persons to return home peacefully.
SEMA’s Coordinated Response
While traditional institutions handled the social reintegration, the heavy lifting of physical rehabilitation was championed by SEMA.
The agency rolled out a comprehensive response: distribution of relief materials (including food, shelter kits, and medical supplies), construction of resettlement villages, and initiation of livelihood support programs such as vocational training, small business grants, and agricultural schemes.
SEMA also prioritized mental health by offering psychosocial support programs to address the invisible wounds of war and displacement.
According to SEMA’s 2023 Annual Report, over 10,000 families benefited from resettlement programs in Yobe, while thousands more received livelihood grants to help rebuild their lives.
Voices from the Ground: IDPs Share Their Journey
For many IDPs, the journey home was marked by both relief and anxiety. Yet, testimonies gathered paint a picture of cautious optimism.
A mother of five who returned to Gujba after four years in an IDP camp, said:
“We lost everything when we fled. It was the Emir of Gujba who personally visited our camp and convinced us that it was safe to come back. SEMA gave us food, helped rebuild our house, and trained me to start small farming. Today, my children are back in school.”
Another beneficiary from Babban Gida (Tarmuwa) expressed gratitude for the new beginning:
“We lived in fear in the camp. SEMA built us two-room shelters and gave farming tools. Our traditional ruler kept visiting to remind us that this land is still ours. Without them, I don’t think I would have returned.”
However, some IDPs also highlighted ongoing challenges.
“The support from SEMA was good at the beginning, but now it is not enough,” said one of the IDPs, who returned to Buni Yadi.
“We need more jobs, better water, and hospitals. But at least we are home, and that is something we can thank our Emir and SEMA for.
Obstacles and the Road Ahead
Despite the successes, reintegration efforts faced significant hurdles. Traditional rulers lamented their reduced political authority under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which left them dependent on local government structures. Cultural diversity within communities occasionally caused tensions, as did limited financial and security resources.
SEMA, too, grappled with funding shortages, logistical challenges, and the sheer scale of needs in a region still vulnerable to security threats.
Nonetheless, both traditional leaders and SEMA remain committed. Plans are underway for expanded livelihood projects, the construction of more durable housing units, and broader mental health services for returnees.
A Joint Blueprint for Recovery
The collaboration between traditional institutions and SEMA offers critical lessons. Reintegration is not merely about rebuilding houses, it is about restoring lives, identities, and trust.
Experts argue that further empowering traditional leaders, alongside sustained funding and support for agencies like SEMA, could accelerate recovery not only in Yobe State but across Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions.
“Without our leaders and the help from government, we would still be lost,” said a beneficiary from Bursari “They didn’t just give us food; they gave us hope.”
As Yobe State continues its long journey towards healing, the resilience of its people led by trusted voices and supported by determined institutions remains its greatest strength.
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