Rising Malnutrition and Humanitarian Challenges in Nigeria’s Katsina State

Edited by: Maher Al Rifai

Doctors Without Borders reported that at least 652 children died from malnutrition in Katsina state, Nigeria, during the first six months of 2025. The organization linked this situation to reductions in funding by several international donors. Katsina, located in northern Nigeria, faces ongoing insecurity that has contributed to the displacement of local populations.

The United Nations World Food Programme announced the suspension of food and nutrition aid for 1.3 million people in northeastern Nigeria at the end of July due to depleted supplies. The Nigerian government allocated 200 billion naira (approximately $130 million) to compensate for reduced international health sector funding. Médecins Sans Frontières also indicated a 208 percent increase in severe malnutrition cases among children in Katsina compared to the same period last year.

Banditry and insecurity in Katsina have resulted in the displacement of many residents and the abandonment of agricultural activities. The government and local civilian groups have undertaken measures to address the security challenges in the area. The combination of insecurity and funding reductions has affected the delivery of health and nutrition services in the region.