Lagos, May 23: United Nations humanitarian officials have raised alarms about an impending food crisis in Nigeria, exacerbated by conflict, violence, and insecurity. They report that millions of Nigerians are bracing for one of the most severe food scarcity seasons to date.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted that economic pressures and unprecedented financial shortages are pushing Nigerian families into a dire situation. According to the UN humanitarian team in Nigeria, nearly one in seven people—approximately 35 million individuals—could face severe food insecurity during this year’s challenging food crisis season from June to August.
OCHA stated, “This has made Nigeria one of the world’s largest hunger crises, with the most significant impact felt in northern Nigeria. If aid is delayed further, millions of families will have to reduce their food intake, sell their assets, and withdraw their children from school.”
The agency also warned of a significant rise in acute malnutrition cases, putting millions of children’s lives at risk. Reports indicate that around 6.4 million children in northwestern and northeastern Nigeria are likely to suffer from severe malnutrition this year.
The UN and its humanitarian partners are urgently appealing for financial assistance to increase life-saving support. OCHA noted, “Resources from the humanitarian fund have helped initiate relief efforts, but additional assistance is needed to meet immediate humanitarian needs.” So far, only a little over 40 percent of the $516 million humanitarian aid plan has been received, amounting to $215 million.
Earlier this month, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged the international community to act swiftly to address conflicts and climate crises affecting African nations. He emphasized that conflicts, climate disasters, and imbalances in the global multilateral system pose significant obstacles to Africa’s peaceful and prosperous future.
Speaking to reporters in Nairobi, Guterres stated, “Any discussion about Africa’s future cannot overlook the suffering caused by ongoing conflicts on the continent.” He called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan.
Guterres warned that terrorism, climate pressures, hunger, and poverty are devastating the Sahel region. He stressed that dialogue, international cooperation, and strong local institutions are essential for lasting peace.
He also noted that conflicts in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz directly threaten Africa’s stability, as 13 percent of Africa’s imports—primarily oil and fertilizers—pass through this critical maritime route.
Guterres pointed out that four out of five African countries are net oil importers, and prolonged disruptions in the global supply chain could worsen their economic conditions. He stated, “Therefore, it is crucial to de-escalate tensions. The rights and freedoms of maritime navigation must be restored, and the Strait of Hormuz should be reopened fully and safely. All parties should avoid actions that could escalate conflicts and allow diplomacy a chance to succeed.”
He concluded by criticizing the lack of permanent representation for Africa in the UN Security Council, asserting that the UN will continue to strive for a more equitable international system that provides Africa with greater representation, resources, and a stronger voice.
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