from EMEKA OKONKWO in Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria Bureau
ABUJA, (CAJ News) – THE triple threat of insecurity, climate shocks and funding cuts has triggered a sharp rise in acute childhood malnutrition in the conflict-prone northeast Nigeria.
About 4,6 million people in the states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe are projected to experience acute food insecurity between June and September, according to statistics provided by the International Rescue Committee (IRC).
More than 600 000 children under five are at immediate risk of severe acute malnutrition, the deadliest form of malnutrition.
IRC reports that in-patient admissions at its clinics increased sharply: from 241 in March to 672 in May, a 178 percent rise.
Malnutrition rates are expected to worsen as the lean season sets in amidst growing insecurity, increased climate shocks like severe flooding, and aid cuts.
During the lean season, between harvesting periods, children face a high risk of complications like malaria, pneumonia, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections.
Rainfall results in water contamination and cholera outbreaks, while wet conditions increase mosquito breeding and disease spread.
Babatunde Ojei, Country Director, IRC Nigeria, said, “It’s heartbreaking to see the needs of children growing while the support to reach them is shrinking.”
“Rising insecurity and violence is cutting off communities, leaving the most vulnerable, especially children, without the care they desperately need,” the official added.
Fewer implementing partners are active as donor reluctance, driven by insecurity, limited access, and global aid cuts, continues to restrict funding.
The IRC is tackling acute malnutrition with teams working across seven hospitals and 65 community facilities in Nigeria.
In 2024, more than 133 000 children under the age of five received treatment for acute malnutrition from its teams.
– CAJ News