Humanitarian support in Nigeria
The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are helping people in Nigeria affected by multiple crises.
Last updated: 17 September 2025
Nigeria is facing multiple humanitarian crises. Millions of people are going hungry and living in poverty. In April 2025, the Nigerian government declared a state of emergency on food security.
Over 5 million children aren’t getting the nutrition they need to grow and stay healthy. Nearly 1 million pregnant or breastfeeding women are affected, too.
Health systems are struggling. Many don’t have the resources to give the care and treatment that people need.
Violence, climate shocks and rising prices are making things worse. People have had to leave their homes and farming is restricted.
In northern Nigeria alone, the number of malnourished children under 5 is the same as the entire population of Scotland.
The Red Cross is working to help to people of Nigeria, but we can only do it with your support. We need your help to act now.
Nigeria in numbers
- 45% of child deaths under 5 are linked to malnutrition
- Nearly 2 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition
- Only 2 in 10 are getting the treatment they need
- 800,000 pregnant or breastfeeding women are malnourished
How the Red Cross is helping in Nigeria
The British Red Cross has a long-standing partnership with the Nigerian Red Cross, a leading responder on the ground.
The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement aims to reach 1 million people.
The Nigerian Red Cross is helping local health teams provide food, care and treatment. The Red Cross is also giving families hygiene kits, clean water and safe spaces for children.
At nutrition centres, children can get emotional support as well as life-saving care.
This work is vital to support communities and save as many lives as possible.
Learn more about our vital work in Nigeria
Where humanity is found
Life in Agagbe Camp in Benue State, Nigeria
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