Spatial Clustering and Locational Patterns of Internally Displaced Persons’ Camps in Abuja, Nigeria: A GIS-Based Analysis

Internal displacement is no longer confined to temporary humanitarian camps. In cities, displaced households often settle close to existing communities, markets, transport routes and public services, creating a spatial issue that urban authorities cannot easily separate from broader planning concerns. Nigeria remains one of Africa’s major displacement contexts, with more than 3.7 million internally displaced people reported in recent estimates (UNHCR, 2026). Despite this scale, relatively little empirical work has examined how existing IDP camps are arranged within Abuja. This study examines the spatial distribution and clustering of IDP camps in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) using geographic information system (GIS) techniques. Field reconnaissance, GPS mapping, observation, questionnaires and interviews provided the primary data, complemented by information from government and humanitarian sources. Eighteen camp locations were identified and georeferenced in five Area Councils. Their distribution was examined by Area Council and by distance from nearby urban centres, while the Nearest Neighbour Index (NNI) was used to determine whether the recorded locations were clustered, random or dispersed. Twelve camps, or 66.7%, were located in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). The calculated NNI of about 0.73 indicates clustering, while camp-to-urban-centre distances ranged from 0.06 to 17 km. The pattern points to the importance of access to roads, services, employment and established urban areas in shaping where camps occur. The study argues that existing IDP settlements should be considered in Abuja’s spatial planning and service-provision decisions rather than treated only as temporary humanitarian sites.