Culture-specificity and Therapeutic Space: A focus on Housing Supply for Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs’) Post insurgence Resettlement in Northern Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The Boko Haram insurgency in Northeast Nigeria since 2009 has led to over 20,000 deaths and displaced more than 2.3 million people,  creating a significant housing crisis for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Addressing this issue requires a culturally sensitive approach  that considers the therapeutic potential of architectural spaces. This study examines the intersection of culture-specific needs and  therapeutic space in housing for IDPs in Northern Adamawa State, focusing on the Kamwe, Marghi, Fali, Gude, and Nzanyi tribes. The  research highlights the importance of cultural norms, values, and practices in shaping housing preferences and the concept of  therapeutic space, which includes physical, social, and psychological aspects. The study finds that culturally specific design features— such as traditional materials, communal spatial arrangements, and cultural symbols—are essential for creating therapeutic  environments. These insights aim to guide post-insurgence resettlement strategies, informing government and humanitarian policies  and practices. The research concludes that incorporating cultural specificity and therapeutic space in housing provision can significantly  enhance the recovery and reintegration process for IDPs, addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term stability