ENHANCING SOCIAL WORK RESPONSE IN INSURGENCY-AFFECTED AREAS: A STUDY OF MANDATORY TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION IN NORTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The protracted Boko Haram insurgency in North Eastern Nigeria has generated a profound humanitarian crisis marked by mass displacement, trauma, and the erosion of social systems. Social workers occupy the frontline in mitigating these effects, yet many enter such volatile contexts without adequate preparation in trauma-informed, conflict-sensitive, and culturally nuanced practice. This study investigates the impact of a mandatory training and certification program on social work response in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states between 2021 and 2023. Employing a qualitative research design, data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 30 trained social workers drawn from governmental and non-governmental organizations. The findings reveal that training significantly enhanced practitioners’ self-efficacy, equipping them with practical tools for trauma counseling, conflict mediation, and ethical decision-making in high-risk contexts. Participants emphasized cultural humility and community engagement as central to service acceptance, noting improved trust when interventions integrated local customs and Islamic principles. However, challenges remain, including limited institutional support, the risk of burnout, and the absence of continuous professional development structures. Critical components identified for sustainability include trauma-informed care, conflict resolution, and supervision frameworks. The study concludes that mandatory specialized training is not merely beneficial but ethically imperative for effective practice in insurgency-affected zones. It recommends institutionalizing certification, embedding training into national curricula, and strengthening systemic support to ensure sustainable, culturally responsive interventions. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for policymakers, professional bodies, and educators seeking to enhance social work capacity in conflict and post-conflict contexts.