In a concerted effort to alleviate the worsening food security and nutrition crisis in Nigeria’s north-eastern region, the Federal Government, alongside national and international partners, has launched an appeal seeking $306 clean water, healthcare, and protection support to people facing severe need, particularly in the Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states.million in funding. The appeal aims to expedite the delivery of food assistance, nutrition supplies and services,
The launch of the appeal comes amidst growing concerns over the deteriorating food security situation in the BAY states, exacerbated by the lean season spanning from May to September. A government-led Cadre Harmonisé analysis released in March highlighted that approximately 4.8 million people in the BAY states are currently facing severe food insecurity, marking the highest level recorded in seven years.
Of particular concern are vulnerable groups including children, pregnant and lactating women, older persons, and individuals living with disabilities, who are disproportionately affected by the crisis. The appeal, known as the lean season food security and nutrition crisis multisector plan, aims to target 2.8 million of these individuals for urgent interventions.
Speaking at the launch of the plan, Zubaida Umar, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, emphasized the importance of mobilizing funding and resources to address the pressing humanitarian needs in the north-eastern part of the country. Umar hailed the initiative as a significant step in the right direction towards mitigating the impact of the food security crisis and ensuring the well-being of affected populations.
Observers say the appeal underscores the collective commitment of the Federal Government, alongside its national and international partners, to provide timely and effective assistance to vulnerable communities facing acute food insecurity and to prevent further escalation of the crisis as well as safeguard the health and livelihoods of millions of Nigerians in the affected region.
