11 Million Facing Food Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

WFP Reports: Acute Food Crisis in Northern Nigeria

​A recent report by the World Food Programme (WFP) highlights a severe food insecurity crisis in Northern Nigeria, with approximately 11 million people across six states in the northeast and northwest regions facing acute food shortages in 2025.

Factors Contributing to the Crisis:

  • Persistent Insecurity: Ongoing conflicts and violence have disrupted agricultural activities and displaced communities, hindering food production and access.​
  • Economic Challenges: Rising food and fuel prices have diminished purchasing power, making it difficult for families to afford essential nutrition.​
  • Climate Shocks: Adverse weather conditions, including floods and droughts, have negatively impacted crop yields and livestock, further exacerbating food shortages.
  • Mass Displacement: Large-scale displacement due to conflict and environmental factors has left millions without stable access to food sources.​

The situation is particularly dire for children under five, with one in three—approximately 11 million—experiencing severe food poverty, increasing their risk of life-threatening conditions.

In response, the WFP is prioritizing operations to reach 1.1 million vulnerable individuals monthly in Northern Nigeria, including displaced persons and vulnerable members of host communities. Additionally, the United Nations has appealed for $910 million to address the humanitarian crisis in the northeast, aiming to support 3.6 million of the 7.8 million people in need across Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states.

Despite these efforts, projections indicate that more than 33 million Nigerians could face food insecurity during the June-August 2025 lean season, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address the root causes of food insecurity in the region.

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