An unprecedented number of people have fled from Nigeria to Niger, Chad and Cameroon. Nigerians have fled to Niger before, but the current batch of refugees seems determined to stay longer. Many had to leave everything behind when they fled, and have no way of earning a living. Obtaining food and other essential items is difficult. Some have found shelter with relatives or host families, while others have settled in camps. The pressure on host communities and local resources is an additional strain on areas already reeling from the drastic slowdown in trade with Nigeria and from a very poor farming and herding season.