Date of Conferral

9-16-2026

Date of Award

September 2026

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Health Sciences

Advisor

Heba Athar

Abstract

The growing population of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria presents significant public health challenges for children with physical disabilities. This study investigated how physical disabilities affect daily life, mobility, access to resources, and health outcomes among internally displaced children in IDP camps in Benue State, Nigeria. Guided by the ecological model of health behavior, the study examined caregivers’ experiences of children’s self-care, daily activities, environmental and interpersonal conditions, sanitation, and access to healthcare. A basic qualitative design used semi-structured interviews with parents and caregivers selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis in NVivo, supplemented by observations of the camp environment. Findings showed that children with physical disabilities experienced substantial dependence on parents and caregivers for mobility and routine activities, including feeding, bathing, toileting, and movement within and outside the camp. Caregivers described carrying or assisting children while managing household and livelihood responsibilities, increasing caregiving demands. Sandy and uneven terrain, inaccessible pathways, pit latrines, limited water access, inadequate waste disposal, and other infrastructure deficiencies restricted mobility, self-care, sanitation, and participation. Observations corroborated these accounts. Participants also reported malaria, typhoid, diarrhea, skin infections, and other illnesses, alongside challenges accessing medications, healthcare, and support services. Disability-inclusive humanitarian responses should prioritize accessible infrastructure, safe water and sanitation, responsive healthcare, caregiver support, and targeted public health interventions to improve mobility, participation, inclusion, and quality of life.

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