The thirteen years of insurgency in the Northeast has cost Nigeria over $100bn, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The World Agency in its latest report indicates that the long-term economic impacts of the conflicts could be seen in areas of death and injury, loss of livelihoods, displacement, and damage to infrastructure.
The Boko Haram terrorists have displaced millions of people and destroyed properties valued at billions of naira in the country’s Northeastern part, particularly in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
The report demonstrated how violence and grave violations against children and women had led to a dire economic decline, which affected the entire country.
Last month, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Borno State Government re-opened their NYSC Orientation Camp after 13 years of interruption by the insurgents.
Commenting on the report, the UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate stated: “The data collected brings a harrowing reality into sharp focus. This isn’t merely a localized issue; this conflict’s economic and social repercussions are felt nationwide and beyond. However, the greatest tragedy lies in the impact on our children – their disrupted education and the violation of their basic rights are losses that cannot be quantified.”
Munduate also stressed the possible long-term consequences of the ongoing conflict, “Even if we anticipate a reduction in conflict effects over the next ten years, the Nigerian economy still faces profound cumulative losses. The ‘scarring’ effect of this drawn-out conflict may inhibit the economy from achieving its full potential, jeopardizing the nation’s future prosperity.”
She called for unified action to end the conflict, saying: “The future of our children and our nation’s economic growth are at stake. We must prioritize peace and the protection of children’s rights to ensure a brighter future for Nigeria.”
“Each statistic in this report represents a child, a future, a hope. Beyond the staggering figures, there’s a compelling call to action. We cannot ignore it. The stakes are simply too high.”
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