Nigeria Faces Severe Malnutrition Crisis Amid Fund Cuts

The malnutrition report released by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) indicates a dire health situation in Nigeria, particularly in northern regions, where nearly 300,000 children were admitted for severe acute malnutrition in 2024. This figure represents half of the global caseload.

MSF's country representative, Ahm Aldikhari, highlighted that ongoing conflicts, insecurity, and economic hardships have led to increased pressure on already overstretched medical services. In 2025, it is projected that 440,000 children will require treatment for malnutrition, marking the highest admissions in recent years.

The report emphasizes that humanitarian fund cuts are intensifying the crisis, limiting access to food and healthcare. Chronic malnutrition affects one in three children under five, contributing to child mortality and low birth weights among infants.

The report calls for urgent action to address malnutrition and protect vulnerable populations, stressing the need for a clear strategy and commitment from various stakeholders to combat this public health crisis.