MSF Withdraws Operations in Zamfara Following Attacks Near Zurmi Hospital

Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), commonly known as Doctors Without Borders, has announced the temporary withdrawal of its staff from Zurmi Hospital in Zamfara State due to escalating security concerns. The decision comes as armed confrontations near the hospital intensify, posing significant risks to both the local population and medical missions.

According to Adulkareem Yakubu, MSF’s Field Communication Officer, continuous heavy fighting in Zurmi town since December 10 has prompted the evacuation of part of the MSF team. The clashes, dangerously close to the hospital supported by MSF, have resulted in the displacement of thousands of people urgently in need of security, shelter, and basic services.

Yakubu highlighted the challenges faced by the medical teams on the ground, stating, “Faced with important security risks, MSF medical teams had to evacuate part of its staff and are unable to function optimally, having to suspend the provision of healthcare to communities outside of the town.”

Adjide Hermann, MSF’s deputy field coordinator in Zurmi, expressed concerns about patients unable to reach the hospital safely, 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 protect the population and ensure the safety of patients and medical staff. The recent surge in violence in Zurmi town during December has resulted in 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 forced 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 emphasizes the need for improvements in the security situation to continue delivering appropriate medical care.

Zamfara State, located 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, carried out 448 surgical interventions, provided 700 emergency consultations, and assisted 5,674 deliveries in the General Hospital in Zurmi. MSF also operates in Shinkafi General Hospital and Talata Mafara and Gummi with pediatric units and malnutrition centers.