DEADLINE: 7TH JULY, 2023
NIGERIA INGO FORUM (NIF)
REQUEST FOR QUOTATION FOR LIVELIHOODS AND RELOCATIONS CONSULTANCY
DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
For over thirteen years, Borno State has been devastated by an ongoing conflict between armed groups and government forces, leading to the displacement of over two million people and the establishment of numerous formal and informal camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) throughout the region. Despite ongoing violence and insecurity, the Borno state government has committed to the closure of all IDP camps in the state by 2026, with 50% of the camps already closed by the end of 2022. However, humanitarian actors have expressed concerns regarding meeting international standards during the relocation of IDPs, including their access to basic services and livelihood opportunities. As the government plans to close more camps and relocate populations in 2023, doubts have arisen regarding the capacity to provide essential services and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the anticipated locations. Furthermore, ongoing insecurity in these areas presents access constraints for international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) working to support IDPs.
Concurrently, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has initiated the Regional Stabilization Facility (RSF) to support the Nigerian government in stabilizing conflict-affected areas in Borno State and facilitating early recovery. The RSF primarily focuses on restoring basic services, infrastructure, and governance structures in pre- identified areas. While certain challenges have been noted regarding the impact of the RSF, it has the potential to contribute to a more secured environment and meet basic service needs, revitalizing economic activities, and creating sustainable income-generating opportunities for IDPs.
The return and relocation of IDPs represent vital steps towards rebuilding lives and communities. Yet, the process is not void of challenges. Actors on the ground have reported that upon their relocation, IDPs encounter numerous obstacles in accessing viable livelihood opportunities, essential services, and social amenities. Factors such as infrastructure destruction, disrupted social networks, limited economic prospects, and persistent security concerns risk to impede their successful reintegration and socio- economic stability. Facilitating access to sustainable livelihoods becomes imperative not only for the economic recovery of IDPs but also for enhancing their protection and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. By regaining and sustaining livelihood opportunities, IDPs can regain agency, dignity, and control over their lives, reducing their vulnerability and dependence on assistance while promoting their own well-being and that of their families.
In addition, closure of IDP camps and the return of displaced populations can have significant socio-economic implications for the host communities in areas of relocation. It is essential to consider the effects on their livelihoods, access to resources, and social dynamics, as the successful integration of IDPs depends on a balanced approach that takes into account the needs and perspectives of both the returning IDPs and the host communities.
Recognizing the exceptional importance of farming for the people of Borno State, given the unique socio-economic context of the region and its role in ensuring food security, providing livelihood opportunities, and preserving cultural heritage, agricultural development and promoting safe access to farmland, in particular, are crucial for sustainable livelihoods in the region.
Research Objectives
The state government, IDPs, and humanitarian actors are united in their commitment to address the socio-economic challenges faced by IDPs and foster their long-term stability and well-being. Therefore, this research project seeks to deepen the understanding of the conditions and perspectives surrounding access to livelihoods for returned and relocated IDPs in Borno State.
By focusing on communities in Gwoza town, the study aims to shed light on the specific challenges and opportunities in these areas of return/relocation, where multiple activities including stabilization ones are being implemented. The research will contribute to evidence-based decision-making, ultimately improving the livelihood prospects and overall quality of life for IDPs in the region. This also aligns with ongoing collective efforts to contribute to solutions to displacement, based on the UNSG Action Agenda. By including the host communities in the research objectives, the study aims to capture the dynamics and interdependencies between the returning IDPs and the communities receiving them.
The primary objective of this research project is to assess the conditions and perspectives regarding access to livelihoods for returned and relocated IDPs in Borno State, with a particular emphasis on the communities of Gwoza.
The specific research objectives are as follows:
(1) Evaluating livelihood opportunities: Examine the range and quality of livelihood opportunities available to returned and relocated IDPs as well as host communities in the selected communities. This includes assessing employment prospects, agricultural activities, vocational training, and other income-generating activities, as well assessing access to land and related risks and opportunities, including with an analysis of trends over time.
(2) Identifying Barriers and Challenges: Identify the key barriers and challenges encountered by returned and relocated IDPs and host communities in accessing and sustaining sustainable livelihoods. This encompasses assessing infrastructure gaps, limited access to financial services, social exclusion, discrimination, and restricted access to education and skills training.
(3) Assessing support programs and interventions: Evaluate the effectiveness of existing support programs and interventions designed to promote livelihood opportunities for returned and relocated IDPs and host communities. This involves analysing the role of government initiatives, the RSF, UN, and NGOs, and community-driven efforts in facilitating reintegration and sustainable livelihoods.
(4) Understanding community perspectives: Gather insights and perspectives from returned and relocated IDPs, host communities, and relevant stakeholders regarding the challenges, opportunities, and recommended strategies for improving livelihood access and socio-economic integration for both groups.
Expected Outcome:
The findings of this research project will contribute to the existing knowledge on access to livelihoods for returned and relocated IDPs in Borno State. The study will generate evidence-based insights into the challenges faced by IDPs in securing sustainable livelihoods in locations of return, while also providing valuable information to inform policy and programmatic interventions aimed at enhancing their reintegration, resilience, and socio-economic well-being.
Deliverables:
- A research methodology including details on the collection of qualitative and quantitative data and action plan (by week 1)
- A report of maximum 20 pages, including an executive summary and recommendations to government and the aid community including development, peace, stabilization and humanitarian actors.
Location
Nigeria – Abuja and/or Maiduguri
The researcher is expected to travel to Gwoza for data collection in field locations. NIF can support with transport by air to the three indicated locations.
Start Date & Period of Implementation.
The start date for this work will be mid-July for 6 weeks, with all the work to be finished by end of August.
Experience, Competencies and Skills
- Proven experience in field and desk research.
- Demonstrated experience in Borno state and humanitarian or development work.
- Experience in agriculture, livelihoods, early recovery programming with INGOs or UN agencies in NE Nigeria – Experience in Garrison towns
- Results oriented, flexible and problem-solving skills
- Understanding of NGOs or UN work
- Solid understanding of displacement in NE Nigeria, camp closure, and durable solutions
Facilities to be provided by the contractor:
NIF is able to provide office space for the consultant in both its office in Abuja and Maiduguri, should it be needed.
Expenses, including but not limited to accommodation, food, phone credit, local transport, are to be included in the consultant(s) proposed daily rate.
Equipment:
The consultant(s) will be expected to work off their own laptop and/or phone as the majority of the work will be home based.
How to Apply
Submission & approval of reports
Research Methodology and Research Report are expected to be submitted to NIF Policy for review. Only once the reports are found to be of sufficient quality will they be approved. NIF maintains the right to make the final decision on approval of products.
It is expected that the consultant(s) will provide drafts in a timely manner to allow for comments and feedback to be incorporated within the project deadlines.
The consultant(s) will have weekly progress meetings with NIF team. This is to update on progress, make NIF aware of any challenges that may arise in the undertaking of this work, and coordinate on ways forward.
The consultant will be working closely with NIF Policy Advisor on this report.
Kindly submit all proposals by return email directly to fabubakar@ingoforum.ng and lvanbeek@ingoforum.ng latest by 7 July 2023. All quotes should be submitted in Naira.
