The humanitarian situation in Nigeria’s Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) States remains critical and highly unstable, driven by escalating insecurity from non-state armed groups. This environment threatens livelihoods and civilian safety, particularly increasing risks of gender-based violence (GBV), and severely limits humanitarian access, leaving some areas virtually unreachable.
Rising insecurity has compounded a deepening hunger crisis, forcing many farmers to abandon their harvests. Without urgent intervention, nearly six million people in the BAY States are projected to face acute food insecurity during the 2026 lean season, which will exacerbate the vulnerability of women and girls.
Borno State is also experiencing a cholera outbreak, with 413 suspected cases, primarily affecting individuals aged 15 and above. Women of childbearing age are particularly vulnerable, as cholera-related severe diarrhea and vomiting can trigger preterm labor, miscarriage, or low birthweight. Immediate access to medical care, clean water, and proper hygiene is critical to protect both mothers and infants.
In December, UNFPA delivered essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to 12,013 people and reached 16,771 more through GBV prevention, mitigation, and response initiatives. However, the organization’s efforts remain severely limited by funding gaps, with only a quarter of the US$12 million required secured in 2025.
