Nigeria Situation Report #4 - November 2024

The ongoing conflict in northeast Nigeria continues to severely impact lives, with nearly 8 million people, including 1.8 million women of reproductive age, requiring humanitarian assistance. Insecurity, including attacks by armed groups and a growing food crisis, exacerbates vulnerabilities for women and girls, increasing the risks of gender-based violence (GBV) and limiting access to essential health services. Challenges such as displacement, food insecurity affecting over 33 million people, and high rates of out-of-school children further deepen the crisis, with girls particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

UNFPA has implemented critical interventions to address these challenges, reaching over 18,000 individuals with sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and over 9,000 with GBV prevention and response initiatives. Activities include case management, mental health support, family planning, and antenatal care. Additionally, dignity kits were distributed, digital literacy and skills training provided, and psychosocial support extended to teachers and communities. UNFPA also led GBV advocacy through campaigns such as the 16 Days of Activism and supported capacity building through training programs for healthcare providers and frontline workers.

Despite these efforts, funding gaps remain significant. Of the US$ 20.9 million required for UNFPA’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan, only 31 per cent has been secured, leaving a US$ 14.3 million shortfall. This shortfall threatens the continuation of life-saving SRH and GBV services, crucial for addressing the escalating needs of affected populations in Nigeria.