The International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Dr. Christos Christou, has raised the alarm over a staggering 51% increase in severe malnutrition among children in northern Nigeria. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja after visiting Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, Dr. Christou highlighted the dire situation faced by the region.
Dr. Christou pointed out that between January and August 2024, admissions of children with severe malnutrition have surged compared to the same period last year. He emphasized that the ongoing insecurity, frequent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, and lack of medical facilities and personnel have exacerbated the crisis.
“The situation is catastrophic,” Dr. Christou stated. “We are witnessing an overwhelming number of malnourished children, and immediate action is crucial to save lives and ensure these children can grow free from malnutrition and its devastating long-term consequences.”
MSF has been working tirelessly to provide medical assistance and nutritional support to the affected communities, but the scale of the crisis requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. Dr. Christou called on the international community to step in and support the humanitarian response in northern Nigeria.
The recent flooding in Maiduguri has further compounded the challenges faced by the residents, forcing many to seek temporary shelter in displacement camps. Dr. Christou’s visit to the area underscored the urgent need for sustained humanitarian aid and long-term solutions to address the root causes of the crisis.
