Conflict and Malnutrition in Nigeria

Nigeria contends with the insidious link between conflict and malnutrition. This relationship is not just a tragic coincidence but a cyclical pattern that underscores the fragility of human security in the country. The interwoven nature of these crises reveals a grim reality where violent conflict breeds displacement and poverty, which fuels food insecurity and, ultimately, malnutrition. Conflict, primarily in the Northern region, has disrupted agricultural practices, displaced millions, and crippled infrastructure. Farmers have been forced to abandon their fields, livestock has been stolen or killed, and markets have collapsed. The resulting food shortages have sent prices soaring, placing an unbearable burden on already impoverished households. Moreover, the breakdown of law and order has hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid, exacerbating the crisis.

Malnutrition, particularly among children, is the grim harvest of this conflict-induced food insecurity. This deadly consequence manifests in various forms. Acute malnutrition, characterised by wasting, is prevalent among children under five. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warns that 1 in 5 children in the conflict-affected regions suffer from severe acute malnutrition, with admissions to stabilisation centres exceeding 2023 levels by more than 50 per cent. Chronic malnutrition, or stunting, affects nearly 50 per cent of children in these areas, impairing cognitive and physical development and trapping generations in a cycle of poverty and poor health. The health implications of malnutrition extend beyond childhood. Seven per cent of women of childbearing age in Nigeria also suffer from acute malnutrition. Pregnant and lactating women who are malnourished are at higher risk of complications during childbirth and have a greater likelihood of giving birth to underweight babies. This perpetuates a cycle of malnutrition and poor health outcomes, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. A malnourished population is a vulnerable population, more susceptible to disease, less productive, and more likely to be caught in the cycle of poverty.

The human cost of malnutrition is immeasurable. Families are torn apart, children are orphaned, and communities are scarred. The psychological trauma inflicted by violence and hunger is a silent epidemic with long-term effects on mental health. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are particularly vulnerable. The United Nations estimates that over 2.2 million people have been displaced in the North East due to the conflict. These IDPs, crammed into overcrowded camps, often lack access to adequate food, clean water, and healthcare. The World Food Programme (WFP) reports that approximately 4.4 million people in North East Nigeria face acute food insecurity. Furthermore, conflict and malnutrition create a fertile ground for extremism and radicalisation. Desperate and disillusioned youth are more likely to be recruited by armed groups, perpetuating the cycle of violence.

Efforts to address the crises of conflict and malnutrition are ongoing but fraught with challenges. Humanitarian organisations, including the WFP, UNICEF, and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), provide emergency food assistance, nutritional supplements, and healthcare services. However, access to conflict-affected areas remains a significant hurdle. Insecurity also limits the reach and effectiveness of humanitarian interventions. Breaking the cycle of conflict and malnutrition must be the centrepiece of all humanitarian interventions in Nigeria, as a healthy population is productive.

Peacebuilding efforts must also be prioritised to create a stable environment conducive to development. This involves not only military action but also dialogue, reconciliation, and addressing the root causes of the insurgency, such as poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion. Strengthening the resilience of communities through sustainable agricultural practices, improved healthcare, and education is crucial. Empowering local communities, particularly women, can enhance food security and promote long-term development. Additionally, the international community must remain engaged, providing the necessary support and resources to address the humanitarian needs and foster sustainable peace and development.

The relationship between conflict and malnutrition in Nigeria underscores the intricate interplay between violence and human suffering. Addressing this crisis necessitates a holistic approach that alleviates immediate humanitarian needs and lays the groundwork for lasting peace and development. By dismantling the vicious cycle between conflict and malnutrition, Nigeria can pave the way for sustainable peace, prosperity, and human development. This requires coordinated efforts from government agencies, international organisations, and local communities to implement comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of conflict and provide long-term solutions for malnutrition. In doing so, Nigeria can create a resilient society where peace and well-being are attainable for all its citizens.