The United Nations is facing a funding shortfall in its efforts to combat severe food insecurity in Nigeria’s insurgency-hit northeastern states. This raises serious concerns about mass hunger and potential deaths in the region, according to the UN’s humanitarian coordinator.
In April, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) launched a $306 million appeal in collaboration with the Nigerian government. This aimed to assist 2.8 million people in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states during the lean season – a period of peak food scarcity exacerbated by the ongoing Islamist insurgency in the region.
While Nigeria and the UN’s central pool have pledged an initial $22 million, OCHA is struggling to secure the remaining funds. Mohamed Malick Fall, head of OCHA, blames a reluctance among international donors, citing the economic impact of COVID-19.
“We are far short of our target,” Fall stated. He anticipates receiving only $300 million in the best-case scenario, a significant decrease from the $500 million secured last year.
Fall attributes the decline not only to the economic impact of the pandemic but also to competing global crises like those in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. These new emergencies are diverting attention and resources from other areas.
The situation is further compounded by Nigeria facing its worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. Inflation is exceeding 33%, and food prices have soared above 40%.
OCHA warns of “catastrophic” consequences if immediate action isn’t taken. UNICEF data from April already shows a disturbing trend, with over 120,000 children already admitted for treatment of severe acute malnutrition in the region. This exceeds the entire year’s target of around 90,000.
“The cost of inaction is dire,” emphasized Fall, “with the most immediate threat being a rise in child mortality.”
The UN is urging international donors to step up their support and help avert a food crisis in Nigeria’s northeast.
