USAID Cuts Spark Fears of Malnutrition Crisis in Northeast Nigeria
Severe funding cuts by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) are exacerbating the malnutrition crisis in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in Borno state. According to humanitarian workers, over 1 million children may lose access to critical treatments, leading to an estimated 163,500 additional deaths annually.
Yagana Bulama, a resident of Dikwa, shared the tragic impact of these cuts after losing a twin to malnutrition. With USAID's funding reductions this year, programs for malnourished children, such as those run by Mercy Corps, have been abruptly terminated, leaving families like Bulama’s without essential support. “Feeding is severely difficult,” she stated.
Shawn Baker, chief program officer at Helen Keller Intl, emphasized that USAID has been the backbone of nutritional support in the region, historically funding 50% of therapeutic foods. Meanwhile, local facilities face overwhelming demand; Intersos, the only remaining inpatient service in Dikwa, reports 10 new admissions daily.
UN humanitarian officials warn that without additional funding and support, the situation is likely to worsen, risking the lives of thousands more vulnerable children.
Nigeria