UN seeks nearly $1 billion for North-East Nigeria

The United Nations has estimated that $910 million will be required to address the humanitarian needs of 3.6 million people in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states in 2025.

These regions, severely affected by conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability, are home to 7.8 million people in need of urgent assistance.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) in Abuja, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, outlined the compounding crises, including flooding, disease outbreaks, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Fall emphasized the need for immediate action to alleviate suffering and build resilience.

Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, called for a combined approach of humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts to address growing needs across the country, including north-west and north-central regions. “We aim to translate humanitarian efforts into durable solutions that lift people out of poverty and provide sustainable livelihoods,” he stated.

Governors Babagana Zulum of Borno, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, and Mala Buni of Yobe pledged continued collaboration with the UN and partners to tackle the challenges and advance sustainable development.

The 2025 HNRP focuses on strengthening aid efficiency, including anticipatory action to mitigate disasters like floods and disease outbreaks. It also aims to enhance direct funding to local partners and scale up cash assistance to reduce costs.

As global funding for humanitarian aid declines, Nigeria faces alarming levels of food insecurity. During the 2025 lean season, 33 million Nigerians are projected to face acute food shortages, with 5.1 million people in the BAY states most affected. Malnutrition threatens millions of children, further exacerbating the crisis.

Urgent financial support from donors and the Nigerian government is essential to provide food, nutrition, and life-saving assistance to those in critical need.