Nigeria is experiencing one of the most severe humanitarian crises of the century. With a conflict lasting well over a decade and no end in sight, the consequences have been dire for civilian’s safety and wellbeing. There are 8.4 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance, while the conflict has claimed 27,000 lives, mainly civilians. The conflict has also displaced 2.2 million people, with over 80% consisting of women and children. 

Similar to many conflicts, it is women and girls that unfairly experience the brunt of violence. Thousands have been abducted since the conflict began in 2009. Thousands more have also endured gender-based violence, including sexual violence, trafficking and forced survival sex in exchange for food and other basic items. For vulnerable households that are threatened by poverty, many have resorted to early marriage and child labour. Furthermore, children are forced into joining armed groups as child soldiers, while some women and children are forced to wear explosive devices.

Unfortunately, the ongoing conflict is not the only crisis that is ongoing in Nigeria. Heavy rains and flooding have exacerbated the country’s food crisis, with 4.1 million people facing hunger and malnourishment. OCHA estimates that there will be 1.74 million children under 5 that will suffer from acute malnutrition, with approximately 300,000 suffering from severe malnutrition and facing a high risk of death if they don’t receive the care they urgently need. 

The situation in Nigeria is dire for the millions of civilians trapped between conflict, famine, poverty and climate change. Moreover, in some states like Borno, which is in the epicenter of the conflict, security concerns remain high. Armed groups have been attacking civilians and aid workers in the region, making it difficult to provide much needed humanitarian assistance. Doctors of the World has been working in north-eastern Nigeria since 2016, striving to provide access to healthcare for vulnerable communities.