The Architecture of Displacement: A Typological Analysis of Informal IDP Shelter Evolution in Flood-Prone Areas of Nigeria

This article examines the architectural evolution of informal internally displaced person (IDP) shelters within flood-prone areas of Nigeria by providing a typological analysis of how these structures transform from emergency responses into semi-permanent settlements. By focusing on case studies from Borno State and the Niger Delta, the research investigates how displaced populations adapt their living spaces to handle recurrent flooding, material shortages, and the reality of long-term displacement. The analysis identifies three distinct phases of shelter evolution: the initial emergency stage using tarpaulin, an incremental upgrading phase utilising local materials like bamboo and mud brick, and the eventual emergence of vernacular flood resilient designs such as elevated structures. These findings suggest that shelter transformation follows predictable patterns driven by environmental stress, a lack of infrastructure, and the extended duration of displacement. The research demonstrates that displaced individuals are not merely passive recipients of aid but active participants who innovate in the face of environmental pressures. In areas frequently hit by rising water, the development of stilt-like supports and moisture-resistant walling shows a sophisticated understanding of local conditions. This typological framework provides humanitarian workers and policymakers with evidence-based insights to move away from generic aid and toward context-appropriate interventions. By balancing immediate lifesaving needs with long-term resilience, these insights help in supporting shelter strategies that are better suited for the unique challenges of Nigerian flood-prone environments.