Growing Fear and Hunger Worsen Humanitarian Crisis in Northeastern Nigeria

 

The ongoing conflict in northeastern Nigeria, driven by Boko Haram’s insurgency, has worsened hunger and malnutrition among displaced populations, according to humanitarian workers and local sources. Although organizations like the World Food Program (WFP) are delivering food and essential aid to some displaced individuals, many in hard-to-reach areas remain without assistance, particularly in regions still dominated by extremist violence.

Since Boko Haram began its campaign in 2009 with the goal of imposing Islamic Sharia law, the group has caused widespread devastation. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 35,000 people and displaced 2.1 million, according to U.N. figures. The insurgency’s impact extends beyond Nigeria, affecting neighboring countries like Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. In Borno state, the group continues to pose a threat, with 1.8 million civilians impacted since 2020 alone.

Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the WFP, recently visited Damasak near the conflict zone, meeting with locals and aid workers. During her visit, McCain spoke about the difficult decisions she faces in food distribution, as many face the threat of starvation. The WFP and other aid organizations continue their efforts despite challenges, with Nigeria’s northeastern region grappling with rising food insecurity, exacerbated by flooding and escalating prices. UNICEF reports that 25 million Nigerians are at high risk of food shortages.