WFP: 33 Million Nigerians will face food insecurity by August 2025

The United Nations has issued a dire warning that Nigeria is on the brink of a major food insecurity crisis, with an estimated 33 million Nigerians projected to face food insecurity by August 2025. The combination of record inflation, climate shocks, and ongoing conflicts has exacerbated the situation, necessitating immediate support to avert a potential food and nutrition disaster in the country. David Stevenson, the Country Director for Nigeria at the World Food Programme, recently discussed these alarming projections and the driving factors behind the increase in food insecurity in Nigeria. Stevenson highlighted that the escalating food insecurity in Nigeria is primarily fueled by persistent conflicts in the northeast involving groups like Boko Haram and Iswap, as well as conflict-related food insecurity in the northwest due to issues such as banditry and farm displacements. Approximately 5 million people are food insecure in both the northeast and northwest regions, leading to a concerning rise in malnutrition, particularly affecting around 5 million children nationwide. The recent surge in food prices, following economic reforms such as the removal of the fuel subsidy and exchange rate stabilization, has further compounded the challenges. While there have been some improvements in food prices with the recent harvest, they remain significantly higher than pre-reform levels. Efforts to address the crisis are underway, with partnerships between organizations like the African Development Bank, the World Food Programme, and the private sector playing a crucial role. The African Development Bank has pledged $1 million to assist families in northeast Nigeria, highlighting a shift towards humanitarian food system solutions that involve empowering local communities to address their own challenges. Collaborations with entities like the MasterCard Foundation aim to enhance youth employment and women's participation in the agricultural sector, fostering long-term sustainability. In adapting to the evolving dynamics of food insecurity, Stevenson emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy that caters to both rural and urban hunger crises. The response to a recent flood crisis in Madaguri exemplified the importance of not only providing immediate assistance but also focusing on recovery and self-reliance to address long-term vulnerabilities. As food price inflation affects urban consumers as severely as rural populations, a holistic approach that balances emergency assistance and sustainable solutions is essential. However, amidst competing global aid funding priorities in conflict zones worldwide, Nigeria risks losing international donor focus. With crises in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and Afghanistan vying for attention and resources, it is crucial for Nigeria to demonstrate efficient and effective utilization of aid contributions. By collaborating with partners and adopting innovative approaches, such as those championed by the African Development Bank and the private sector, Nigeria can proactively address its food insecurity challenges and maintain donor support. Stevenson underscored the importance of balancing emergency assistance across various critical operations globally while prioritizing solutions that promote self-reliance and prevent further displacement. By showcasing tangible results and a united front in tackling food insecurity, Nigeria can secure ongoing support and navigate the complex landscape of international humanitarian aid. As the country with the largest number of food insecure individuals in Africa, Nigeria must urgently address the looming crisis to ensure the well-being and resilience of its population.