The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has said 7.9 million Nigerians are in urgent need of humanitarian aid in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
These states have been severely affected by nearly two decades of violence, primarily due to Boko Haram insurgency, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions.
During this year’s World Humanitarian Day event held in Yola, UNOCHA provided detailed statistics: 3.9 million people in Borno, 2.2 million in Adamawa, and 1.8 million in Yobe are in need of assistance. Women and children comprise over 80% of those affected, with many facing severe food insecurity and malnutrition.
Mohamed Malick Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, highlighted the critical levels of food insecurity and malnutrition in the region, noting that only a third of the required $306 million in aid has been raised.
In a related statement, Farauta underscored the Adamawa state government’s efforts to rebuild damaged infrastructure and find sustainable solutions for displaced populations. She stated, "We have initiated interventions in Malkhohi and are working towards durable solutions. It is more dignified for people to live in familiar environments."
Additionally, over 4,500 civilians were reported killed in conflict-related violence in 2023. David Lubari Lominyo, Head of the UN Sub-office in Damaturu, Yobe, shared this during a World Humanitarian Day address, citing data from the UN Secretary-General’s 2024 report on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.
Lominyo expressed concern over the ongoing violence and indiscriminate attacks by armed groups, which continue to impact security, humanitarian efforts, and the socio-economic and political conditions in the region. He urged all parties involved in the conflict to end hostilities, protect civilian assets, and allow children the opportunity to live full lives.
SOURCE: Daily Trust
