The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) will scale back operations in Nigeria due to a $58 million funding shortfall. The decision affects staff positions and critical humanitarian support, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, amid a global funding crisis.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has announced a reduction in its operations in Nigeria due to a $58 million funding shortfall. This decision will see a reduction in the workforce and operations, affecting approximately 500 positions or 20% of staff across its offices, including in Nigeria.
OCHA, which provides critical support in emergency response across the country, particularly in conflict-prone states such as Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, cited the significant gap in funding as the primary reason for the scaling back. The agency is focusing on restructuring its resources, which means fewer locations will receive direct assistance, though the agency’s overall presence in Nigeria will not be completely withdrawn.
The cuts come in the wake of diminished foreign aid, especially following U.S. funding cuts under President Donald Trump’s administration. In recent years, OCHA has faced difficulties in securing adequate funding for its humanitarian work, which has impacted operations globally. Last year, OCHA’s budget was drastically underfunded, leaving it with a significant gap in necessary resources to tackle ongoing humanitarian crises.
The decision to reduce operations has been met with concern from Nigerian authorities. Nentawe Goshwe, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, expressed regret over the move, stressing that humanitarian challenges are intensifying across Nigeria. Despite the setback, the Nigerian government remains committed to addressing the country’s humanitarian needs, with President Bola Tinubu reaffirming support for relief efforts.
