Opinion

By Kabir Fagge Ali

As the country mourns the unfortunate and catastrophic tanker explosion that claimed over a hundred lives in Majia town, Taura local government, Jigawa State. The circumstances leading to this devastating event, and its unfolding discourse on digital space leave a bitter taste.

If past events of such nature didn’t serve as a pointer, one would have been forced to argue that the deleterious economic hardship Nigerians are currently undergoing played a significant factor in the circumstance warranting people to desperately attempt to scoop up fuel from a fallen tanker that is highly flammable. However, one cannot, in all honesty, overlook the impact of economic hardship instigated by the “so-called reform” of this administration.

While the explosion was a profound tragedy, what followed on social media turned a devastating accident into a platform for spreading hate. Netizens took to various platforms to condole, analyze, obfuscate, sympathize, and attack the dead in a typical Nigerian fashion of ethnicizing, religionizing, politicizing and regionalizing events. What should have been a space for empathy, turned into a hub for anger, with users blaming specific ethnic groups for what they called “ignorance” and “greed.” 

The horrific event became weaponized by those seeking to stoke division and deepen the fractures within Nigerian society. One @AdemolaSola38048 on X wrote, “E no go better for their dead body”, another, @Peterojueromi posted “Well, I no pity them sha, na their stupidity kill dem”.  How does a tragedy of this magnitude turn into an avenue for deriding others?

Instead of offering sympathy or proposing solutions, many used the incident as an opportunity to fuel long-standing ethnic, regional, and religious tensions. Blame was cast on entire communities for the reckless actions of a few, with harsh, derogatory terms being used to describe those who were simply trying to survive in an environment where economic opportunities are scarce.

Speaking on this incident, the former Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Skyline University, Nigeria, and an expert on hate speech and digital media, Mr. Abdulhameed Olaitan Ridwanullah noted that “social media is like a two-edged sword. It can draw the attention of relevant rescue teams and government agencies to the event and at the same time serves as an accelerant for the societal divide”.    

He warns:

“From the Nigerian experience, one shouldn’t be surprised that even in tragedy, some Nigerians cannot conceal the hate in their hearts. With social media in the hands of some of the worst among us, and the anonymity and herd mentality that comes with it, it is not surprising to read comments on social media space that shouldn’t have made it out of the thought process of whoever posted them.”

Mr. Ridwanullah added that “in the wake of national disasters like this, it is not surprising that some elements of division will weaponize such a tragedy”. He emphasized that it is important for Nigeria to look into legislation on digital media that will not only guarantee freedoms provided by digital platforms but ensure the sanity of the digital space.

“At this critical time in our digital journey, scholars should start looking beyond the usability of these platforms but understanding how their affordance reflects on our society. This kind of event and the rhetoric we saw on X underscores the importance of my research on nexus between online hate speech and offline hate crime” he surmised.

It is time for social media platforms to step up and recognize their role in monitoring and curbing the spread of hate speech. At the same time, it is also up to users to approach these platforms with responsibility and empathy. While frustrations with governance, inequality, and resource scarcity are real, targeting those who suffer the most with hateful rhetoric is not the solution.

The Jigawa tanker explosion should serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the dangers of living in a world where safety nets are often nonexistent. But more importantly, it should remind us that in moments of tragedy, we should seek to uplift each other rather than tear each other down.

As Nigeria continues to navigate complex social, ethnic, and economic challenges, we must remember that unity, empathy, and constructive dialogue are far more powerful than any message of hate.

Kabir Fagge Ali, is a Writer with PRNigeria center and write via faggekabir29@gmail.com.

By Mukhtar Jarmajo

Certainly, a democratic system of governance is predicated on the idea that, as long as the people can elect their leaders in the three strata of government and representatives in the legislatures, society will be better, given that government policies and programmes will reflect the people’s yearnings and aspirations. While this is true, to fully realize this ambition, the full participation of the citizenry in the entire democratic process cannot be overemphasized.

Citizens must uphold their responsibilities in the name of nation-building by electing only leaders who genuinely understand society’s challenges and are sincerely willing to address them. This crop of politicians can be identified through their campaign manifestos. The issues raised, ideas discussed, and points made during campaign rallies, discussions, and interviews by aspirants tell significantly how they feel about their society and their burning desire to work towards raising the people’s living standards to a higher threshold.

Therefore, it is essential for voters to consider the backgrounds of political candidates and their plans when choosing at the polls. For Nigeria’s democracy to thrive, everyone must work to educate the public about the importance of active participation in the democratic process and making informed choices at the ballot box.

This, most probably, is retired Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar’s school of thought, which is why he has remained steadfast in talking to the people, especially in Bauchi State, on the need to engage in the politics of principles while prioritising the general development of the society. 

Notably, Abubakar contested for the governorship position in Bauchi State in the 2023 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform. This has been his call since the 2023 election campaigns.

At every forum, he praises the politics of principles, noting that it is the only path to a better society. Through the politics of principles, the nation will get the right leaders who can work hard to deliver democratic dividends to the people. When the right leaders are in place, the children of ordinary citizens will gain access to quality public education and enjoy the same advantages as everyone else, enabling them to attain their full potential and realise their ambitions.

More so, there will be access to affordable quality healthcare services; food will be sufficient and available on every home’s table; there will be more jobs for the teeming youth; affordable housing will be made available so everyone can live in decent shelter; and, most importantly, the security of lives and properties can be assured.

Jarmajo wrote from Kukadi/Gundari Ward, Misau Local Government, Bauchi state. 

By Ofemile Blessing Afeghese

Infantile immunisation is the process of making babies or toddlers resistant or immune to certain infections or diseases. It is vaccinating babies and young children to protect their health from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Immunisation gives infants the immunity to fight diseases that can cause long-term health issues or even death.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2019, Vaccines are products usually given in childhood to protect against serious, often deadly diseases. By stimulating the body’s natural defences, they prepare the body to fight the disease faster and more effectively.

Infantile immunisation is important because infants are vulnerable to infections, and their immune systems are not fully developed. Immunisation provides them with protection during this critical period of their lives. Vaccines are given to babies to protect them against serious illnesses like polio, which can cause paralysis; measles, which can cause brain swelling and blindness; whooping cough (pertussis); and tetanus, which can cause painful muscle contractions and difficulty eating and breathing, especially in newborns.

Abdullah Sani, a 39-year-old survivor of polio, said, “Growing up, I realised I couldn’t do what children my age could do with their legs. I wanted to run, jump, play with my friends and do everything my peers were doing, but I couldn’t. I felt terrible.

At the age of three, doctors told my parents that I would never walk again. My mum cried profusely as she resolved with my dad to fight the disease that had disabled me. I was taken to many hospitals and traditional healers in search of a cure, but the search was fruitless as there was no cure for polio. The disease took my ability to walk.”

World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in 2024 that vaccines and immunisation currently prevent 3.5 million to 5 million deaths yearly from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles globally.

In Nigeria, the National Programme on Immunization (NPI) in the year 2014 stated that routine immunisation of children in Nigeria is carried out using the following vaccines: BCG ( Bacilli Calmette Guerin) at birth or as soon as possible after birth; OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) at birth and 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; DPT (Diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; Hepatitis B at birth, 6 and 14 weeks; Measles at 9 months of age; Yellow Fever at 9 months of age and Vitamin A at 9 months and 15 months of age.

Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health states that a child is considered fully vaccinated if they have received a BCG vaccination against tuberculosis; three doses of DPT to prevent diphtheria; pertussis (whooping cough); tetanus and at least three doses of polio vaccine; and one dose of measles vaccine. All these vaccinations should be received for five visits during the first year of life, including the doses delivered at birth. According to this schedule, children between 12–23 months would have completed their immunisations and be fully immunised.

According to UNICEF, in 2019, infantile immunisation was one of the most effective ways to protect babies from preventable diseases. Health experts say that vaccinating your child not only safeguards their health but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.

 Vaccines are safe and effective and have played a crucial role in reducing and eradicating dangerous diseases. By following the recommended immunisation schedule, parents can protect their babies from the serious risks of infectious diseases, giving them the best possible start in life.

Ofemile Blessing Afeghese wrote from Bayero University, Kano.

 By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen

In today’s hyper-connected world, our smartphones have become more than just communication devices; they are lifelines that connect us to information, social networks, and essential services. However, this dependence has given rise to a modern psychological phenomenon known as nomophobia—the fear of losing mobile connectivity. This article explores the definition, symptoms, causes, and potential solutions to this increasingly common issue.

Nomophobia, a term derived from “no mobile phone phobia,” was coined in a 2010 study by the UK-based Post Office. It describes the anxiety and fear experienced when an individual is unable to access their mobile phone or is disconnected from the internet. The condition can manifest in various forms, including feelings of panic, anxiety, and distress when separated from one’s phone, whether due to battery failure, loss, or lack of signal.

Nomophobia can manifest through several symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Common indicators include panic, physical distress, compulsive checking of devices, irritability, and social withdrawal.

 Several factors contribute to the development of nomophobia, including social connectivity pressures, work expectations, psychological tendencies, and cultural norms that emphasise constant connectivity. The condition can adversely impact personal relationships, professional performance, and well-being.

The impact of nomophobia extends beyond personal anxiety; it can affect professional performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Studies have shown that individuals with nomophobia may experience decreased productivity, difficulty concentrating, and strained relationships due to constant device distraction.

Furthermore, the omnipresence of mobile devices can lead to “phubbing,” a term for ignoring someone in favour of a mobile device. This behaviour can damage personal relationships and reduce the quality of face-to-face interactions.

Addressing nomophobia requires self-awareness, behavioural changes, and, in some cases, professional intervention. Individuals can implement strategies to manage nomophobia, such as setting device boundaries, practising mindfulness, engaging in digital detoxes, and seeking professional help if necessary. Understanding and addressing nomophobia is essential for fostering a healthier relationship with technology and enhancing mental well-being.

Nomophobia is a growing concern in our increasingly connected world, affecting individuals’ mental health and well-being. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and potential solutions is crucial for fostering a balanced relationship with technology. 

By acknowledging our dependency on mobile devices and taking proactive steps to manage our usage, we can mitigate the negative impacts of nomophobia and cultivate a healthier, more mindful approach to connectivity. 

Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Mass Communication Department, Bayero University, Kano.

By Onumoh Abdulwaheed 

Northern Nigeria is facing an increasingly severe malnutrition crisis, with recent data revealing a stark escalation in cases. UNICEF reports that Nigeria has the second-highest burden of stunted children globally, with a 32% prevalence rate among children under five. An estimated 2 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), yet only 20% receive treatment.

According to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the situation has worsened dramatically in 2024. Dr. Sanjana Tirima reports alarming increases across northern Nigeria. In Maiduguri, northeast Nigeria, MSF’s inpatient therapeutic feeding centre admitted 1,250 severely malnourished children with complications in April 2024, double the figure from April 2023. The centre has had to expand to 350 beds, far exceeding its initial 200-bed capacity.

Similar trends are seen elsewhere. In Bauchi state, MSF’s facility at Kafin Madaki Hospital saw a 188% increase in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023 in the admissions of severely malnourished children. Northwestern states like Zamfara, Kano, and Sokoto have reported increases in admissions to inpatient centres ranging from 20% to 100%.

Dr Christos Christou, MSF’s International President, previously highlighted the multiple challenges facing northern Nigeria, including “overwhelming levels of malnutrition, frequent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, lack of medical facilities and personnel, and continuous insecurity.” The crisis is further exacerbated by widespread flooding, which has devastated farmlands and displaced millions.

Despite the escalating crisis, the humanitarian response remains inadequate. In May, the United Nations and Nigerian authorities issued an urgent appeal for US$306.4 million to address nutrition needs in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. However, MSF notes this is insufficient as it doesn’t cover other affected parts of northern Nigeria.

Dr Tirima emphasises the situation’s urgency: “Everyone needs to step in to save lives and allow the children of northern Nigeria to grow free from malnutrition and its disastrous long-term, if not fatal, consequences.” She calls for immediate action to diagnose and treat malnourished children and engage in sustained, long-term initiatives to address the root causes of the crisis.

MSF and other organisations stress the need for a comprehensive and urgent response as the situation worsens. “We can’t keep repeating these catastrophic scenarios year after year,” Dr. Tirima warns. “What will it take to make everyone take notice and act?” The crisis in northern Nigeria remains a critical humanitarian concern requiring immediate and sustained attention from national and international stakeholders.

Onumoh Abdulwaheed wrote via onumohabdulwaheed@gmail.com.

By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen

Water is vital for our health, influencing everything from digestion to metabolism. While most people focus on how much water they drink, the temperature of that water can also have significant effects on our health. Water temperatureis measured using two primary scales: Celsius and Fahrenheit. Celsius is the most commonly used scale globally, while Fahrenheit is used primarily in the United States.

Cold water refers to water that is lower than room temperature. The average room temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit), so water below this range is considered cold. In Celsius, cold water is defined as 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, while Fahrenheit is between 32 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. This article explores the benefits and potential drawbacks of consuming cold water.

Benefits of Drinking Cold Water:

1. Enhances Metabolic Rate:

Drinking cold water can boost your metabolic rate, aiding in burning more calories. The human body burns calories when maintaining our core temperature; therefore, when we drink cold water, the body expends energy to warm the cold water to the core temperature, thereby burning calories.

2. Improves Digestion:

Cold water after a meal can aid digestion. It can contract stomach muscles, speeding digestion and facilitating nutrient absorption.

3. Reduces Inflammation:

Cold water can help reduce inflammation. Post-exercise, drinking cold water may soothe sore muscles and mitigate inflammation.

4. Aids Hydration:

Many people find cold water more satisfying, which may encourage higher water intake and better daily hydration.

Effects of Drinking Cold Water:

1. May Disrupt Digestion:

While cold water can be beneficial after a meal, consuming it during meals may interfere with digestion by solidifying fats, making them harder to digest.

2. Can Cause Headaches: 

Drinking cold water rapidly can trigger headaches or migraines as the cold temperature may constrict blood vessels in the head.

3. May Lead to Colds:

Cold water does not cause colds, but it might weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

4. Can Aggravate Gallstones:

Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder.

For those with gallstones, cold water may cause gallbladder contractions, potentially intensifying symptoms.

In conclusion, while drinking cold water offers several benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of how and when you consume it. Opt for room temperature or warm water during meals to aid digestion, and enjoy cold water as a refreshing option throughout the day.

Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

By Hajara Abdullahi

Girl Child education is a major cornerstone for national development. In developing countries, Nigeria, inclusive of the girl child education, keeps experiencing setbacks due to certain constraints, which include poverty, cultural practices, insecurity, climate change, etc. In Northern Nigeria, where these challenges are more persistent, enrollment of the girl child has been minimal despite efforts by relevant stakeholders.

On October 11th, the International Day of the Girl Child was celebrated worldwide; several campaigns and gatherings were held in Nigeria to commemorate the event. The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, while addressing a conference marking the event, described Nigeria’s 25.6% out-of-school as a threat to the country, and he reiterated the need to take a specific action plan to address the menace.

According to UNICEF, Nigeria has 18 million out-of-school children, and out of these 18 million out-of-school children,60% of them are girls. This implies that we must invest, harness, and champion enrollment in girls’ education.

Education is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of national development. Investing in girls’ education empowers individuals, communities and the nation.

Education is not just a fundamental human right but a cornerstone of national development. When we invest in girls’ education, we invest in the future of our communities and nation. A girl with an education is not just an empowered individual but a catalyst for change. 

 Below are some of the essential aspects of girl-child education for national development.

Economic Growth: Educated girls significantly contribute to economic growth. Studies show that a girl’s future earnings increase substantially for every additional year of schooling. Educated women participate in the labour force, start businesses and drive economic development. In Northern Nigeria, where unemployment is rampant, empowering girls through education can break the poverty cycle and boost the economy.

Health and Well-being: Education profoundly impacts health outcomes. Educated girls make informed decisions about their health and well-being, marry later, and have healthier families. Educated girls prioritise their children’s education and health, creating a virtuous development cycle.

Social Change: Educated girls engage in civic activities, advocate for their rights and challenge societal norms. They become leaders, role models and change agents, contributing to gender equality and national progress. Inspirational figures like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Amina J. Muhammad, Professor Ruqayatu Rufai and Maryam Aloma Mukhtar exemplify how investing in girls’ education fosters social change and national development.

Sustainable Development Goals: Girls’ education is crucial to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Prioritising girls’ education helps eradicate poverty, promote gender equality and ensure sustainable development.

Therefore, we need to commit to actionable steps. We need increased investment in girls’ education, community awareness programs that challenge harmful cultural practices, and partnerships with local organisations to create safe and supportive learning environments. Every stakeholder, from government officials to community leaders, educators, and parents, has a role to play.

In conclusion, let us remember that the education of the girl child is not just a women’s issue; it is a national imperative. Together, we can build a future where every girl in Nigeria has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Hajara Abdullahi wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano. She can be contacted via phlosopherquin162@gmail.com.

By Alamin Musa Muhammad 

In recent years, Nigeria has stood at a pivotal juncture in its democratic evolution. Our country, rich in natural and human resources, has grappled with challenges that threaten to undermine its democratic institutions. While there have been successes, particularly in the peaceful transfer of power and the continuation of democratic processes, systemic issues call for reflection and reform.

At the heart of these challenges is the question of participation. Democracy, in its ideal form, seeks to empower every citizen, granting them a voice and ensuring that the governance structures are responsive to all needs.

Many since have similar opinions about the actual practice of democracy in Nigeria. Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP) in the general election of 2023, has expressed dismay at the state of Nigerian democracy, claiming that it has seen numerous losses and is hampered by poor leadership.

He tweeted, “We have continued to rank low and perform badly in every measurement of true democracy, signalling a critical deficiency in our democratic system.”

The Nigerian experience with democracy has revealed gaps in this aspiration. These gaps are not necessarily due to a lack of commitment to democratic principles but rather to a broader issue of implementation and inclusivity.

One of the core pillars of democracy is the ability of its citizens to participate meaningfully in governance, or at least that is what the famous scholar Plato believes. While voting and elections form the bedrock of this participation, they alone are insufficient to achieve the broader goals of justice, equity, and empowerment.

Gabriel Dewan, Plateau state speaker house of assembly, said, “Nigerian leaders, including myself, have failed the people after 25 years of the country’s unbroken democracy; he rated Nigeria’s democracy low”.

Nigeria’s political landscape, shaped by decades of military rule and the influence of elite-driven politics, often fails to translate electoral victories into genuine empowerment for its citizens.

Premium Times reported the speaker to have said that the country was blessed with abundant human and natural resources, but the leaders did not correctly harness them. With the natural resources and blessings God had bestowed upon Nigeria, the country ought to be far better than it is now; there are countries with far fewer resources than Nigeria, yet they were in a much better state.

Like many before it, the current administration has embarked on a series of reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and addressing security issues. Yet, while commendable in intent, these efforts highlight the complexities of governance in a diverse and multifaceted society. The rising cost of living, coupled with increasing insecurity, suggests that reforms must be more attuned to the lived realities of the people.

Nigeria is a poignant example of the disconnect between democratic theory and practice within the country’s political landscape. As BBC reporter Simi Jolaoso noted in a Wikipedia publication, Nigeria is experiencing “the worst economic crisis in a generation,” marked by soaring inflation and skyrocketing food prices. 

The crisis has been exacerbated by economic reforms introduced under the current administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of Naira. While these measures were ostensibly aimed at liberalising the economy and attracting foreign investment, they have instead intensified the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. 

Protests erupted on July 29, 2024, with demonstrators taking to the streets, brandishing placards proclaiming messages like “Enough is Enough” and “We Are Not Slaves in Our Country.” Such sentiments highlight the erosion of social justice and the exclusion of the masses from meaningful political participation, reflecting the theories posited by Dewey and others that underscore democracy’s essence as a system of values rather than merely a political framework. 

Reforms must also extend to the institutions that safeguard democracy. A robust judiciary, a free press, and an active civil society are essential components of a functioning democracy. Strengthening these institutions will protect citizens’ rights and ensure that the government remains accountable to the people it serves.

Furthermore, the concept of democracy as merely a political system defined by elections and power transfers must evolve. Democracy, at its core, is about fostering a system of values—justice, equity, and social progress. A democracy that fails to address society’s socioeconomic disparities or marginalises large sections of its populace cannot fully claim the mantle of democratic legitimacy.

As Nigeria looks to the future, the question that must be asked is whether the current reforms genuinely work for the greater good of all Nigerians. While there are many challenges, they also present an opportunity—a chance to redefine governance in a way that is more responsive, more inclusive, and more attuned to the aspirations of its people.

The strength of Nigeria’s democracy will ultimately depend on its ability to adapt and reform in ways that bridge the gaps between policy and practice, between the elite and the grassroots, and between political ambition and the needs of everyday Nigerians.

The decisions made today will shape Nigeria for tomorrow. It is a call to action—not just for those in government but for every Nigerian who believes in the promise of democracy.

By Jerry Ayuba Yavo

Depression is not just a regular aspect of human experience but a serious medical condition. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, depression is a common yet serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that impact how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. 

Some symptoms include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or pessimism, irritability, frustration, restlessness, and, in severe cases, thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempts.

In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that an estimated 3.8% of the global population experiences depression, with 5% of adults affected (4% among men and 6% among women) and 5.7% of adults over the age of 60. 

Approximately 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and alarmingly, depression is about 50% more common in women than in men. This disparity is primarily attributed to biological factors, including hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, and other factors.

Despite its prevalence, many people with depression may be unaware of their condition. A woman in Nigeria shared her experience with a reporter, revealing how she had struggled with mood swings since childhood. Her parents believed she was facing spiritual attacks, isolating her from her siblings, who were considered “normal.” 

As she grew older, she turned to drugs and alcohol to cope, eventually becoming addicted. It wasn’t until much later that she realised she had been suffering from depression since childhood. After marriage, she also experienced post-natal depression, which worsened her case.

In recent years, treatments such as medication and psychotherapy have proven effective for most people with depression. However, over 75% of individuals in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment due to several barriers, including limited investment in mental health care, a lack of trained healthcare providers, and the social stigma surrounding mental illness.

Both men and women must assess their mental well-being and seek professional help if they experience symptoms of depression. Addressing mental health openly and without stigma is essential for a healthier society.

Jerry Ayuba Yavo wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, via jerryjnr419@gmail.com.

By Zainab Abubakar Abba

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has been grappling with insecurity for decades. The country’s protracted conflicts, terrorist attacks, and banditry have led to widespread displacement, forcing millions to flee their homes in search of safety.

The Boko Haram insurgency, which began in 2009, has ravaged the northeastern region, particularly the Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. The terrorist group’s relentless attacks on civilians, schools, and religious institutions have resulted in unprecedented displacement. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), over 2.5 million people have been internally displaced in Nigeria, with the majority being women and children.

In addition to Boko Haram, banditry and kidnappings have become rampant in various parts of the country. The northwestern states of Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina have borne the brunt of these attacks, with thousands forced to flee their homes. The Nigerian government’s inability to curb these security threats has exacerbated the displacement crisis.

The consequences of displacement are far-reaching. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) face immense challenges, including loss of livelihoods, inadequate shelter, food insecurity, psychological trauma, and lack of access to education. Many IDPs have abandoned their farms, businesses, and livelihoods, leading to economic instability. Overcrowded and unsanitary IDP camps have become breeding grounds for diseases.

The Nigerian government has established the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to coordinate relief efforts. However, critics argue that the government’s response has been inadequate, citing insufficient funding, ineffective security measures, and a lack of durable solutions.

The international community has provided significant humanitarian aid, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of displacement. The United Nations, European Union, and other organisations have provided emergency assistance, supported peace-building initiatives, and advocated for policy change.

Nigeria’s insecurity has resulted in one of the largest displacement crises in Africa. The government, international community, and humanitarian organisations must work together to address the root causes of conflict and insecurity, provide durable solutions, and ensure accountability. The situation demands collective action to stem the tide of displacement and ensure the safety and dignity of Nigeria’s citizens.

Zainab Abubakar Abba wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.