The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reported that as of June 2024, approximately 24,000 individuals, primarily children, were reported missing in Nigeria.
This alarming figure, according to the ICRC, represents “only a fraction” of the actual number of missing persons in the country.
Patrick Youssef, ICRC’s Regional Director for Africa, highlighted this grave issue in a statement on Friday, marking the International Day of the Disappeared, under the theme ‘We Who Remain Behind Remember’.
The day, observed annually on August 30, aims to raise awareness about the plight of the missing, honor their memories, and alleviate the emotional distress faced by their families.
Youssef revealed that more than 71,000 individuals were registered as missing across Africa, a 75 percent increase from 40,708 in 2019. He noted that Africa has the highest caseload of missing persons globally, the largest number of unaccompanied children, and the highest number of family reunifications.
“The issue of missing persons, including those who forcibly disappeared, remains one of the most damaging and long-lasting humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts and other situations of violence for all loved ones, whether a waiting wife or a heartbroken one,” Youssef stated.
He pointed to prolonged armed conflicts, particularly in northeastern Nigeria’s Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, as major factors contributing to the disappearance of thousands.
Additional causes include natural disasters exacerbated by climate change and perilous migratory journeys that leave vulnerable individuals at risk of separation and disappearance.
“Behind every missing person, there are countless more suffering from the anguish and uncertainty. It’s a humanitarian tragedy for families, one that has consequences across all of society,” Youssef added.
The ICRC has been actively supporting affected families in Nigeria by delivering Red Cross messages, providing mental health support, offering legal advice, and, in some cases, extending financial assistance.
Youssef emphasized the need for a more determined international effort to prevent and respond to the issue of missing persons.
“Political will is an essential step to obtain the necessary resources to respond to this issue, including the cooperation between authorities, both at the national level and across borders,” he said.
Youssef also underscored the complex nature of disappearances, noting that in armed conflicts, both civilians and combatants can go missing due to arrest, capture, or detention. He pointed out that while some may be alive, they often lack the means to contact their relatives.
“However, these authorities may lack resources, knowledge, or political will to do so. The ICRC and the national societies can play a crucial role,” he concluded.