The United Nations human rights office (OHCHR) has called on Nigeria to take all lawful measures to stop the recent surge in kidnappings affecting tens of thousands, especially schoolchildren, in the north-central states of Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, and Borno.
Since November 17, at least 402 people, mostly children, have been abducted in these regions. While some victims, including all 38 kidnapped worshippers in Kwara, have been freed or escaped, hundreds remain captive. OHCHR stressed the Nigerian government must hold perpetrators accountable and ensure the safe return of all abductees.
Meanwhile, the World Food Programme (WFP) warned that intensified insurgent attacks are worsening hunger and regional instability. Nearly 35 million Nigerians are projected to face severe food insecurity during the 2026 lean season. WFP highlighted growing threats from al-Qaeda affiliate Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), fueling violence and economic hardship.
The WFP cautioned that funding shortages forced cuts to nutrition programs affecting over 300,000 children, with emergency assistance expected to run out in December. This escalating crisis threatens millions, especially vulnerable rural communities in northern Nigeria, demanding urgent intervention.
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