WFP Raises Fresh Alarm Over Looming Hunger Crisis in Northern Nigeria

The United Nations World Food Programme has expressed concern over the worsening food security situation in northern Nigeria, warning that millions of residents could face severe hunger if urgent interventions are not implemented.

In its latest assessment, the agency attributed the deteriorating humanitarian conditions to persistent insecurity, widespread displacement and declining financial support for emergency relief operations across the region.

According to the WFP, more than 17 million people across conflict-affected states in northern Nigeria are currently experiencing varying levels of food insecurity, with many households struggling to meet their daily nutritional needs.

The agency noted that renewed attacks by armed groups have forced thousands of farming communities to abandon their farmlands, significantly reducing agricultural production and limiting access to food supplies.

It added that the situation has been worsened by reduced humanitarian funding, which has affected the delivery of life-saving food assistance to vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.

The WFP disclosed that Borno State remains the most severely affected, with millions requiring urgent food support as insecurity continues to hamper humanitarian operations.

The organisation warned that limited access to several communities due to security concerns has complicated relief efforts, leaving humanitarian agencies unable to reach many of those in need.

It further stressed that unless additional funding is secured, millions of vulnerable persons may be left without food assistance over the coming months, increasing the risks of malnutrition, displacement and social instability.

The agency appealed for increased international and domestic support to sustain food distribution, nutrition programmes and emergency logistics across northern Nigeria.

Analysts have linked the growing food crisis to prolonged insecurity, arguing that continued attacks on farming communities have disrupted agricultural activities and reduced food production across several states.

They also warned that rising food prices, inflation and economic hardship have further weakened the purchasing power of many households, making access to basic food items increasingly difficult.

Stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to intensify security operations to enable farmers to return safely to their farmlands while supporting humanitarian organisations delivering relief materials.

The WFP maintained that addressing insecurity alongside sustained humanitarian assistance remains critical to preventing a deeper food crisis and restoring stability in affected communities across northern Nigeria.