The Government of Nigeria, together with humanitarian partners, has launched an urgent appeal for $516 million to provide lifesaving assistance to 2.5 million people in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) States in 2026. Women and children account for eight out of every ten people in immediate need.
The appeal, part of Nigeria’s 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), comes amid escalating needs in the BAY states due to a 16-year conflict, compounded by widespread displacement, limited access to basic services, climate shocks, economic hardship, and shrinking livelihood opportunities.
“Humanitarian needs are dramatically worsening at a time when international funding for operations is at its lowest,” said Mohamed Malick Fall, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria. “Every day funding gaps persist is a day another malnourished child is pushed closer to preventable death.”
In 2026, around 3 million children under five in Nigeria are projected to suffer from severe acute malnutrition, including 1 million in the BAY states. Additionally, nearly 35 million Nigerians are expected to face acute food insecurity during the lean season, with 5.8 million in the BAY states.
The 2026 HNRP emphasizes a transition to nationally-led and resourced humanitarian action, gradually reducing reliance on international support. Success will depend on strong partnerships between the Government and humanitarian community.
Dr. Bernard Doro, Federal Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, reiterated the Government’s commitment to lead humanitarian coordination, ensure policy alignment, and integrate relief efforts with broader national reforms aimed at reducing poverty, strengthening human capital, and building resilient communities.
The Governors of the BAY states – Professor Babagana Zulum (Borno), Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), and Mai Mala Buni (Yobe) – pledged continued collaboration with humanitarian partners to deliver urgent assistance and advance durable solutions.
Funding for the 2025 HNRP ($282 million) was about half of 2024’s allocation, resulting in a significant decline in humanitarian support. In 2026, additional resources, including increased Government investment, are urgently needed to provide food, nutrition, healthcare, water, sanitation, and protection services. Improved security remains crucial to protect civilians and enable sustainable solutions.
