By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) revealed that the number of severely malnourished children in BAY states has doubled—from 500,000 to 1 million this year.
The increase is due to funding shortages as donor support declines. Also OCHA will end its permanent presence in Nigeria by 2026, shifting to remote support and periodic deployments.
Mr. Trond Jensen, Head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), disclosed this on Tuesday, during a courtesy visit to Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, in Damaturu, the state capital.
He noted that critical funding cuts from major donors—including the United States (100% withdrawal), the UK (40% reduction), and Germany and the Netherlands (50% cuts each)—have slashed aid capacity just as needs surge.
“Our ability to treat malnutrition in the BAY States has halved, while the number of severely malnourished children has doubled—from 500,000 to 1 million this year,” the UN team leader said.
“This is a life-or-death situation requiring urgent collaboration.”
Governor Buni’s provision of operational support, including office space, was highlighted as a model for other states.
However, OCHA announced it will end its permanent presence in Nigeria by 2026, transitioning to remote support and periodic deployments due to funding shortages.
“We are not leaving entirely, but our footprint will shrink,” officials clarified, dispelling misconceptions about a full withdrawal.
The UN urged stronger partnerships with local governments and NGOs to fill gaps, praising Yobe’s Durable Solutions Group for allocating 25% of its budget to displaced populations.
