A new report from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has revealed a heartbreaking reality in Katsina State—652 young children died from hunger-related illnesses in the first six months of 2025.

Shockingly, this number is far greater than that of Gaza, even though Katsina is not a conflict zone.

UNICEF reported that in Gaza, child hunger deaths rose from 52 to 80 during the same period—making Katsina’s toll nearly nine times worse.

The crisis has alarmed human rights groups like Amnesty International. The organization’s Nigeria Director, Isah Sanusi, is urging northern governors—especially in Katsina—to declare a state of emergency on child malnutrition and food shortages.

Sanusi warned that similar hunger crises are happening in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara, where both children and nursing mothers are struggling to survive. He also criticised the Katsina government for not taking urgent enough action.

UK-based lawyer and security analyst, Bulama Bukarti, described the findings as “shocking,” noting that the deaths counted were only of children.

He said 90% of households in the region have reduced their daily meals, some from three to just one, due to federal economic policies and insecurity from bandits.

For many families, farming has become too dangerous, and markets are no longer safe. Displaced mother Rabi Salisu shared how children continue to die as attacks happen even in broad daylight.

In response, Katsina health officials say they are taking steps to fight malnutrition. The state has set up 25 Outpatient Therapeutic Points in five worst-hit LGAs to provide nutritional help and treatment for children.

Dr. Umar Bello, who coordinates the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) Project in Katsina, said they are now focusing on prevention.

The first phase of the programme reached three million people, while the second phase will work with state ministries to tackle the root causes of food insecurity