UNHCR appeals for $2 million as Nigerians flee insecurity across borders
More than 66,000 people had crossed into neighbouring countries by mid-October, three times the figure for the same period last year.
The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) has appealed for $2 million to assist Nigerians who have fled insecurity in the north of the country, as well as tens of thousands who remain displaced within Nigeria.
According to the agency, more than 66,000 people had crossed into neighbouring states, principally Niger and Benin, by mid-October. This represents three times the number recorded over the same period last year.
Northern Nigeria continues to contend with violence by jihadist groups and criminal gangs, clashes between farmers and herders, and rising religious intolerance.
UNHCR spokesperson Eujin Byun said in Geneva that some 34,000 of those who had fled were yet to be registered, "leaving them at heightened risk and struggling to access essential assistance". The agency said it was struggling to deliver aid to those in need.
Jihadist violence originating in northern Nigeria has spread into Niger, Chad and Cameroon over the past decade, prompting the formation of a regional military coalition to confront the armed groups.