Niger — humanitarian situation

Niger faces a protracted humanitarian crisis driven by armed conflict, persistent insecurity, and intensifying climate shocks, which have collectively generated widespread food insecurity and acute malnutrition (FAO). The country serves as a critical migration crossroads, with Nigerians comprising 55 percent of refugees and migrants moving through Niger, predominantly from Borno State (36 percent) and Kano (25 percent). While 93 percent cite economic motivations, violence and insecurity remain significant drivers, particularly for those originating from Borno State where 90 percent report fleeing conflict (MMC). Most arrivals, 87 percent, initially plan to continue their journey beyond Niger, with half lacking sufficient information on migration regulations in destination countries, potentially pushing them toward unsafe and irregular routes (MMC). UNHCR maintains operational presence across six regions—Tillaberi, Diffa, Tahoua, Agadez, Maradi, and Niamey—tracking persons of concern as of 31 May 2026, though specific population figures are not provided in the available documentation. The crisis has resulted in progressive deterioration of livelihoods, particularly in the most vulnerable rural areas, with acute malnutrition persisting among children (FAO). Secondary movements from Niger follow northbound routes, with tracking data showing that six months after initial arrival, respondents had reached Algeria, Libya, and Europe, underscoring the country's role as a transit hub for broader migration flows (MMC). The humanitarian situation is further complicated by an anticipated El Niño event from mid-2026, with most forecasts indicating at least moderate strength and strong conditions increasingly possible. This climatic threat arrives amid record global temperatures, creating compounded risks for a country already experiencing intensified climate shocks (IASC, IFRC, OCHA). Only 26 percent of Nigerian respondents reported holding refugee documentation, suggesting significant protection gaps (MMC). FAO has developed an emergency and resilience plan for 2026-2028 to address the alarming situation, though regional funding data as of 22 June 2026 indicates ongoing resource constraints across West and Central Africa (OCHA).