Alarming Increase in Malnutrition
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, has reported a dramatic rise in the number of severely malnourished children admitted to their facilities in northern Nigeria. In recent weeks, these admissions have surpassed last year’s figures by over 100 percent in certain areas. This surge indicates an early peak of the lean season and a corresponding increase in acute malnutrition, which typically occurs in July.
Overwhelmed Facilities and Urgent Needs
MSF’s Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Simba Tirima, expressed grave concerns over the situation. “Our facilities are overwhelmed. We are treating patients on mattresses on the floor. Children are dying. Immediate action is needed to save lives and prevent long-term or fatal consequences of malnutrition,” said Dr. Tirima. He called for urgent intervention from Nigerian authorities, international organizations, and donors.
Rising Admissions and Worsening Crisis
The situation has been deteriorating over the past two years, with 2022 and 2023 already critical. In April 2024, MSF’s medical team in Maiduguri admitted 1,250 severely malnourished children with complications, doubling the number from April 2023. By the end of May, the centre, designed to accommodate 200 patients for the peak season, was already hosting 350 children.
Regional Impact and Insufficient Response
In Bauchi state’s Kafin Madaki hospital, admissions of severely malnourished children rose by 188 percent in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Similar increases were observed in Zamfara, Kano, Sokoto, and Kebbi states. Despite these alarming statistics, the overall humanitarian response remains inadequate, with many organizations overwhelmed and underfunded.
Calls for Comprehensive Action
The United Nations and Nigerian authorities recently appealed for $306.4 million to address the nutritional needs in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. However, Dr. Tirima warned that this funding would be insufficient, neglecting other northern regions where the need is equally dire. He emphasized the need for a larger response and sustained initiatives to address the root causes of malnutrition.
Urgent Plea for Support
MSF is urging donors and authorities to enhance support urgently for both curative and preventive approaches. “Reducing nutritional support to only severely malnourished children is akin to waiting for a child to become gravely ill before providing care,” Dr. Tirima stated. He called for comprehensive measures to ensure all malnourished children receive the necessary care to avert higher mortality risks.
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