Maiduguri, Nigeria — The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported that by the end of 2024, approximately 284,000 people were declared missing globally, a dramatic 70% increase over five years.
Diana Japaridza, Head of the ICRC Maiduguri Field Office, revealed the figures during the International Day of the Disappeared event, observed annually on August 30 to honor victims and families of enforced disappearances.
Nigeria accounts for around 24,000 active missing persons cases since 2014, concentrated mostly in the northeast conflict zone, marking the highest caseload in Africa.
Japaridza noted that more than half of the missing were children at the time of disappearance, emphasizing the deep societal and familial impact of such cases.
The ICRC, through its Family Links Network, facilitates reunions, locating thousands despite the growing crisis fueled by conflict, violence, disasters, and migration.
Borno State officials also expressed sympathy and commitment to support families coping with the agony of uncertain fates.
The ICRC urged global and local authorities to acknowledge the suffering of families and strengthen adherence to humanitarian laws to prevent disappearances.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | August 30, 2025
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