Indigeneship and Social Exclusion in Nigeria: Understanding the Everyday Experiences of Internal Migrants in a Multi-Ethnic Society

The phenomenon of indigeneship in Nigeria has been a source of significant socio-political tension, influencing policy formulation and the allocation of opportunities. This study investigates how the politics of indigeneship contributes to social exclusion and discrimination against internal migrants. Utilizing a qualitative study design, we conducted 30 in-depth interviews with internal migrants across four main geo-political regions in Nigeria (North, West, East, and South). Participants were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques to capture a variety of experiences relevant to the study’s focus. Data were collected through face-to-face, semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Our findings reveal that the demand for indigeneship fuels social exclusion, with internal migrants facing significant barriers to permanent employment and lucrative opportunities. These exclusionary practices, rooted in ethnic and regional biases, undermine the constitutional rights of Nigerians and threaten national unity. The study highlights the need for policy reforms to address these inequalities and promote social inclusion.