The economic hardship faced by families in Sokoto, Nigeria, is deepening, affecting vulnerable groups, especially children. Maryam Aminu’s youngest child, diagnosed with malnutrition for the second time, highlights the dire situation. The family’s struggles worsened after Shehu Aminu lost his taxi job due to increased gasoline prices resulting from conflict in Iran.
Aminu explained how she felt when her child was diagnosed again, expressing her sadness and frustration, knowing the challenging conditions that led to this situation. In their modest home, the presence of burning charcoal stove ashes symbolized the challenging conditions they endure.
Child malnutrition relapse has become increasingly common in Sokoto State and northern Nigeria. Local health and aid workers blame this on the chain effects of conflict in Iran impacting already economically pressured regions. Northern Nigeria, one of the world’s poorest areas, faces insurgency crises compounded by food insecurity due to conflicts in the Middle East.
The Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation three years ago, have led to significant inflation. According to a World Bank report, 139 million Nigerians are now poor or vulnerable. UNICEF warned of potential poverty for 23.4 million more children globally, primarily in Africa and Asia, if conflict persists.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell expressed concerns about the impact on children, emphasizing the worsening consequences of prolonged conflict. The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has caused a global fuel shock, increasing costs of gasoline, groceries, fertilizers, and airfares.
In Nigeria, fuel prices surged from 800 nairas per liter in February to 1,400 nairas by April. This escalation affects food and essential goods prices, intensifying hardships. Efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump to reopen this critical route involved military actions, negotiations, and diplomatic pressures.
At Sokoto health facilities, records showed nearly 40 children previously treated for malnutrition have returned for treatment, underscoring the recurring issue. Health worker Halimah Muhammad voiced concerns over rising numbers and their implications.
Catherine Russell from UNICEF highlighted the long-term impact of economic hardships on child growth, education, and development, during her visit to Sokoto, stressing the need for urgent measures.
The war also disrupted fertilizer supply, threatening planting seasons and affecting northern Nigeria’s agricultural communities, struggling to access farmland due to armed group conflicts.
Shehu Aminu shared his frustration, reminiscing about times when feeding the family was affordable, noting the drastic increase in food costs. Their meals are now limited to pap and rice.
Northwestern Nigeria faces threats from bandit groups and expanding Islamist militants, worsened by remote conflicts in Iran. Analysts highlight the lack of respite for vulnerable communities in the North.
Larai Malami, facing similar struggles, is concerned about her child’s recovery from malnutrition after her husband lost his job and moved to Niger for work. The high fuel and food prices keep him away from family, raising fears about her child’s health.
Aminu echoes the sentiment, longing for a brighter future for her children amidst adversity.