Over 650 children die from malnutrition in Nigerian state after international funding cuts

---

Full Story

At least 652 children have died from malnutrition in Katsina State, Nigeria, during the first half of 2025. Médecins Sans Frontières attributes the deaths to reductions in funding from international donors.

The aid organization reported a severe deterioration in nutritional support availability. Funding cuts have affected food programs and emergency response capacity across the region.

MEDIA REPORTING

See how news sources on all sides are covering this story.

Left 37% | Right 22% | Center 30% | Unrated 11%

The Context

Katsina is one of Nigeria’s poorest states, with chronic undernutrition affecting a large portion of the child population. Health systems in the region are under strain, limiting effective treatment.

Many children reportedly arrived at health centers in advanced stages of starvation. Without immediate and sustained aid, medical intervention often came too late.

Malnutrition is both a health and economic issue, with long-term effects on cognitive and physical development. International bodies have repeatedly warned of rising food insecurity in West Africa.

Funding reductions have been linked to shifting global priorities and donor fatigue. Aid agencies have said that reduced financing directly impacts their ability to reach those most in need.

Some argue wealthier nations must do more to maintain humanitarian commitments in conflict-affected areas. Others believe local governments should prioritize structural reforms over reliance on foreign aid.

The scale of deaths has raised alarms among humanitarian groups, who warn more fatalities may follow. Calls for emergency funding have intensified in response to the crisis.