Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), commonly known as Doctors Without Borders, has made a significant decision of temporarily reduced activities in Zurmi local government area of Zamfara state as a precautionary measure due to heightened security concerns. This move comes in response to an increase in armed confrontations near the hospital, posing significant risks to both the local population and the delivery of medical services.
Adulkareem Yakubu, MSF’s Field Communication Officer, reported that persistent heavy fighting in Zurmi town since December 10 has necessitated the evacuation of part of the MSF team. These clashes, perilously close to the hospital supported by MSF, have resulted in the displacement of thousands of people urgently requiring security, shelter, and basic services.
Yakubu emphasized the challenges faced by the medical teams on the ground, stating, “Confronted with substantial security risks, MSF medical teams had to evacuate part of its staff and are unable to operate optimally, resulting in the suspension of healthcare provision to communities outside of the town.”
Adjide Hermann, MSF’s deputy field coordinator in Zurmi, expressed concerns about patients unable to safely reach the hospital, with some refusing to leave out of fear. The security challenges have led to a reduction in the MSF team, and those still working at the hospital are apprehensive about the unfolding situation.
Simba Tirima, MSF’s country representative, urgently appealed to the conflicting parties to cease hostilities to safeguard the population and ensure the safety of patients and medical staff. The recent surge in violence in Zurmi town during December has led to numerous casualties and displacements.
Yakubu reported, “The December spike in extreme violence, including killings and kidnappings, comes within a wider context of insecurity in Zamfara state.” The displaced population in Zurmi is compelled to live in unsanitary conditions in unofficial camps and temporary shelters.
Despite the challenging circumstances, MSF remains committed to providing medical support to the Nigerian population in Zamfara state. However, the organization underscores the imperative for improvements in the security situation to facilitate the continued delivery of appropriate medical care.
Zamfara State, situated in Nigeria’s North-west, has been grappling with a surge in kidnappings, killings, and disruptions to socio-economic activities in recent years due to the rise of armed bandits in the region.
In 2023, MSF, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, conducted 448 surgical interventions, provided 700 emergency consultations, and assisted in 5,674 deliveries at the General Hospital in Zurmi. MSF also operates in Shinkafi General Hospital and Talata Mafara and Gummi, with pediatric units and malnutrition centers.
