UNICEF engages local actors to tackle malnutrition and humanitarian crises in Northeast

By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the capacity of local actors to deliver humanitarian and development services in Northeast Nigeria.
Speaking at an engagement session at the Summit Hotel in Damaturu, the UNICEF Maiduguri Field office, Josephine Nneka stated that the initiative, ongoing for the past three years in Borno State, has recently been extended to Yobe State to expand collaboration and reach.
“Our work involves regular dialogue with local actors, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the government,” she explained.
“The aim is to build their capacity to effectively implement programs, ensuring that every child and every woman receives the support they need—no matter where they are.”
Nneka noted that while UNICEF and other international organizations face limitations due to security challenges, local actors—being part of the communities—can access hard-to-reach areas where external agencies cannot.
“Local actors provide essential services, including health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and protection,” she added.
“They identify malnourished children, those with medical needs, or children separated from their parents due to insurgency, and link them to appropriate care.”
According to her, malnutrition remains a pressing concern in the region, with many children acutely or moderately malnourished. She attributed the crisis to food insecurity caused by insurgency, insecurity that restricts farming, and worsening economic hardship.
“To address this, we train local actors to educate mothers on proper nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, and how to prepare balanced meals using locally available food items. We believe these efforts will reduce malnutrition rates,” Nneka said.
She added that, UNICEF is working with about 45 local actors in Yobe State, alongside the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and RUWASA, as well as UN bodies including OCHA. In Borno State, the organization consistently partners with about 60 local actors annually.
“Our target is every child who needs support—whether in nutrition, immunization, or protection. We are determined to ensure that no child is left behind,” Nneka emphasized.
In his remarks, the Yobe SEMA’s Director Rescue Operation, Dr. Muhammad Jalo commended UNICEF’s role in responding to humanitarian needs through its Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM).
“During complex emergencies, the crisis spares no one. UNICEF is among the first responders globally. However, we must recognize that communities themselves are the true first responders, even before state or national agencies arrive,” he said.
He stressed the need to avoid duplication of efforts while ensuring local actors are empowered to take the lead.
“Local partners already have a physical presence, community knowledge, and technical expertise. This dialogue helps them understand financial management and humanitarian systems, making them integral to future emergency responses.”