Tag unicef says boko haram violence taking devastating toll on children
According to a recent report by UNICEF, the violence perpetrated by Boko Haram in Nigeria and the surrounding regions is having a devastating impact on children. Here are some key points from the report:
Devastating toll on children:
- Over 1.7 million children have been forced to flee their homes due to the conflict, leaving them vulnerable to violence, exploitation, and abuse.
- More than 7 million children are in need of humanitarian assistance, including food, shelter, and healthcare.
- The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 20,000 children, with many more injured or traumatized.
Impact on education:
- Over 1,000 schools have been destroyed or damaged, leaving hundreds of thousands of children without access to education.
- Many children have been forced to drop out of school or abandon their education due to the conflict.
Protection concerns:
- Children are being recruited and used by armed groups, including Boko Haram, to fight and carry out attacks.
- Girls are being subjected to sexual violence, abduction, and forced marriage.
- Boys are being forced to fight and are being used as suicide bombers.
Health concerns:
- The conflict has disrupted healthcare services, leaving many children without access to basic medical care.
- Malnutrition is a major concern, with over 1 million children at risk of severe malnutrition.
Call to action:
- UNICEF is calling for increased support to provide humanitarian assistance to affected children and families.
- The organization is also urging governments and armed groups to take immediate action to protect children from violence and exploitation.
Quote from UNICEF:
"The violence perpetrated by Boko Haram is having a devastating impact on children, leaving them vulnerable to harm, exploitation, and abuse. We urge all parties to take immediate action to protect children and ensure they have access to the assistance they need to survive and thrive." - Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria.