The Maiduguri Case Study Solutions for City/Towns (EDENN-URB) Joint Study: World Bank and Government of Borno (presentation)

Overview & Synopsis

The key messages from this presentation are the following - 1. Maiduguri, as Borno’s capital, is key to the state’s long-term development. Maiduguri is the center of trade for the region. The city hosts 20 percent of Borno’s State population and plays a pivotal role in peace building efforts. 2. Cities and towns in Borno have seen a significant spatial redistribution of population. This includes a substantial inflow of IDPs into Greater Maiduguri and other towns (capitals of LGAs) which have also hosted IDPs and where returnees are locating after the closure of formal camps. The long-term development of Borno means addressing the challenges of Maiduguri and the other LGAs in the state. 3. The inflow of IDPs decimated service delivery in Maiduguri and has long-term implications. Although returns are continuing, the long-term impacts of inflow and conflict on infrastructure and services persist at a city-wide level and at a neighborhood level. At the same time, returns to the capitals of LGAs are also significantly impacting services within those towns, requiring significant investments, particularly in water supply, sanitation and waste management services. 4. Forced urbanization has increased vulnerability to disasters, especially flooding and extreme heat, concerns given to climate change. Institutional strengthening, long term prevention, adaptation and mitigation strategies with an emphasis on early warning and advocacy are critical. 5. Maiduguri’s economic recovery, following rapid population growth and the decline in services, is ongoing. While the economy has started to bounce back, unfavorable employment conditions and inequities between host community residents, IDPs and returnees are prevalent, amplifying pre-existing problems of unemployment and poverty. Investments in local economic development and socio-economic inclusion are key to increasing Maiduguri's competitiveness. 6. Unclear functional relationships and inadequate resources (human and financial) hamper efforts to address urbanization challenges, while LGAs take on additional security responsibilities. Strengthened technical capacity to support effective governance and service delivery is key for Borno’s long-term development.