WFP Sounds Alarm On Hunger Crisis On Nigeria, Calls For Public-Private Sector Collaboration

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning about the escalating food insecurity and malnutrition in Nigeria.

The WFP’s Executive Director, Cindy McCain, concluded a five-day visit to the country, where she witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of conflict, climate shocks, and soaring food prices.

In a statement released on Monday, McCain declared the situation “deeply disturbing,” noting the alarming increase in acutely malnourished children and the displacement of millions unable to return to their homes and farmlands.

“People there desperately need peace and stability, so farming and food production can restart and this hunger crisis can be halted in its tracks,” McCain emphasized, drawing particular attention to the dire conditions in Damasak, Borno State.

32 million Nigerians struggling to feed themselves: Despite its vast agricultural potential, the country faces widespread hunger driven by poverty, recurring conflicts, and climate shocks.

Over 3.6 million displaced: Conflict has forced millions from their homes in the northeast and northwest, leaving them unable to farm or engage in economic activities.

Devastating floods: The recent floods in Maiduguri, described as the worst in 30 years, have displaced over 400,000 people.

Soaring malnutrition: The number of children admitted for severe and moderate acute malnutrition has risen by 40% and 70% respectively compared to 2023, with 9 million children now at risk.

The WFP has been working tirelessly to alleviate the crisis, providing food and cash assistance to 1.6 million people this year.

However, the scale of the problem demands a more comprehensive response, one that goes beyond humanitarian aid.

McCain stressed the urgent need for public and private sector leaders to collaborate in tackling the root causes of hunger and building peace in Nigeria.

She highlighted the potential of African-led solutions, emphasizing the role of the private sector and entrepreneurship in addressing food insecurity and youth unemployment.

“WFP’s commitment to delivering lifesaving assistance and tackling the root causes of hunger in Nigeria is stronger than ever,” McCain stated.

“By mobilizing funding, technology, and ambitious new partnerships between the private and public sectors, we can support rural livelihoods, strengthen food systems and offer sustainable solutions to food insecurity that empower local communities.”

The WFP is actively working with the Nigerian government and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) on a groundbreaking food systems program aimed at building resilient and inclusive food systems to break the cycle of conflict.

This “Out of Conflict, into Solutions” strategy will address critical issues such as post-harvest losses, limited access to agricultural inputs, poor dietary diversity, and restricted food access.

Recognising Nigeria’s immense agricultural potential, the WFP emphasizes the vital role of the private sector in developing robust supply chains.

However, the organisation urgently requires $228 million to prevent a catastrophic situation in northeast Nigeria and meet the food and nutrition needs of 1.6 million people over the next six months.

The WFP’s call for a united front against hunger in Nigeria resonates with the need for a multi-faceted and collaborative approach to addressing this complex humanitarian crisis. The stakes are high, and the time for action is now.