Sida's work in Nigeria
Nigeria is one of the countries in West Africa most affected by violence. The armed conflict in the north-east of the country has been going on for more than a decade. Sida's humanitarian aid aims to save lives, alleviate suffering and increase protection for people affected by the armed conflict.
The humanitarian situation in Nigeria
The 12-year old armed conflict in north-eastern Nigeria, has further deteriorated in 2021 and 2022. The situation for the population has sharply worsened. Lack of access to food leaves around 14 million people in a critical state of food insecurity. In north-eastern Nigeria, over 1.7 million children under the age of five are at risk of acute malnutrition by August 2022, if it is not averted.1 The war in Ukraine is further worsening food access.
Violence between armed groups and Nigeria’s military has forced many people to leave their homes, both within the country and to neighbouring countries. Closure of refugee camps in Borno has further exacerbated the situation.
2.2 million people are displaced and 8.4 million are in need of humanitarian assistance and the number is increasing. One million people cannot be reached by humanitarian assistance. Violations of human rights and humanitarian law are common. The rights of internally displaced persons are lacking.
Nigeria is also one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. Drought and desertification are expected to increase in the north and flooding in the south, which will reduce already inadequate agricultural production.
The aim of Sida's humanitarian work
Sida’s humanitarian aid in Nigeria aims to save lives and alleviate distress by providing timely assistance and support to the most vulnerable people. Providing people with access to food and nutrition is particularly important. The work strengthens respect for international humanitarian law and will contribute to increased protection from violence and abuse.
Sida works with seven organisations in Nigeria that focus on preventing hunger through life-saving interventions and increased access to food. Here is a selection of the organisations that Sida supports in Nigeria.
Food for hard-to-reach areas
The World Food Programme (WFP) works on food supply and logistics, but also on protection. Support is particularly focused on preventing malnutrition in children below the age of two and pregnant and lactating women. Support to the United Nations Humanitarian Air Services (UNHAS) is also included here, helping to fly food to hard-to-reach areas.
Support against acute malnutrition
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works to provide nutrition, education, water, sanitation, hygiene and child protection in Nigeria. In north-eastern Nigeria, UNICEF supports affected people in an integrated way. Among other things, children receive measles vaccines, treatment for acute malnutrition and access to education.
Direct support to domestic organisations
The Nigeria Humanitarian Fund (NHF) is a country-based fund managed by the UN and is a key instrument to ensure that support is provided where needs are not met elsewhere. The Fund also provides direct support to Nigerian organisations.
Sida’s Humanitarian Crisis Analysis
Updated: October 4, 2022