Nigeria has recorded a grim milestone, ranking first in Africa and second globally for the number of malnourished children, according to new data released by UNICEF.

The report highlights the growing human security crisis in the country, with insecurity and climate change cited as major contributing factors. Many families are struggling to access food, clean water, and healthcare—especially in conflict-affected regions.

This alarming statistic puts pressure on both the Nigerian government and international partners to scale up nutrition interventions and address the root causes of food insecurity.

UNICEF is calling for urgent action to reverse the trend, warning that millions of children remain at risk unless significant steps are taken soon.