The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has expressed deep concern over the alarming surge in drug abuse, prostitution, and other social vices within the Muna Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, which currently houses over 48,000 displaced individuals in Borno State.
The agency’s North-East Zonal Coordinator, Abdullahi Sirajo, raised the alarm during a town hall meeting with residents of the camp on Wednesday. Represented by NEMA’s Head of Operations in the Northeast, Manir Gidado, Sirajo called on parents and community leaders to work closely with government authorities to combat the growing wave of societal challenges, particularly among the youth.
“Our engagement was very fruitful. We discussed how to reduce drug abuse among youths, prostitution, security threats, and other related issues,” Sirajo said. “Several strategic measures were adopted to address these social problems, and we assured the residents of NEMA’s continued support to ensure their comfort and dignity as they prepare to return to their ancestral homes.”
The meeting marked the conclusion of a five-day pilot sensitisation programme aimed at promoting disaster preparedness and building social resilience in line with international emergency management standards.
Located on the outskirts of Maiduguri, the Muna camp accommodates over 9,400 households displaced primarily from Mafa and Dikwa Local Government Areas as a result of the prolonged insurgency in the region.
Despite the agency’s efforts, residents voiced deep concern over deteriorating social conditions, especially the increasing vulnerability of children and persons with disabilities.
“Our children are exposed to all sorts of negative influences, and we’re not doing enough to stop it,” said Nana Aisha, a community leader from Mafa. “Some parents even depend on these children for survival, without caring how they earn money. We are not enrolling them in school—neither formal nor informal. So how can they know the difference between right and wrong?”
Abiso Kadi, chairman of persons living with disabilities in the camp, also decried the worsening food situation. “Many vulnerable residents are struggling to meet their basic needs,” he said, adding that urgent intervention was needed to address hunger and social neglect.
NEMA has pledged to sustain its engagement with residents and intensify efforts to restore order and dignity in the camp, but many say stronger collaboration and more targeted support are essential to stem the tide of social decay.
About The Author
