More than 500,000 children in Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states face severe acute malnutrition, UNICEF has said.
The agency raised the concern in a report based on the October 2025 Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis, warning that many children across the three northwestern states urgently need nutrition support and healthcare services.
UNICEF said food insecurity, poverty and poor access to healthcare continue to push families deeper into hardship, especially in rural communities already struggling with rising food prices and displacement linked to insecurity.
According to the report, many affected children show signs of wasting and severe hunger, while several households cannot afford balanced meals or medical care.
The organisation described the situation as a development emergency and called for urgent action from government authorities, donor agencies and humanitarian groups.
UNICEF also urged increased investment in nutrition programmes, clean water supply, maternal healthcare and community support systems to help families cope with the growing crisis.
Meanwhile, health workers in some affected communities continue to battle shortages of medical supplies and feeding materials needed for treatment centres caring for malnourished children.
The agency warned that without immediate intervention, more children could face serious health complications in the coming months.
