Nigeria is facing a critical food insecurity crisis that threatens the livelihoods of millions of its citizens. The combination of rising inflation, climate change, and violent conflict has put at least 64 million Nigerians in need of emergency food and nutritional assistance, according to the World Bank. This article delves into the devastating impact of these interconnected issues on the nation’s food security, exploring the personal stories of individuals affected and the government’s response.
The Alarming Numbers
Startling figures from the United Nations World Food Programme reveal that currently, 24.8 million Nigerians suffer from acute hunger, indicating a widespread system of privation and worsening food insecurity. To add to this concern, Nigeria’s ranking on the 2022 Global Food Security Index has plummeted to 107 out of 113 countries, a significant decline from its previous rank of 97 in 2021.
The Struggle of Everyday Life
The skyrocketing cost of living has become a burden for many households and traders across the country. Joyce Collins-Ossai, a housewife and bank worker, expresses her shock at the ever-increasing prices of essential food items and household commodities. “We can’t eat a standard three-square meal without serious calculations. “Things are very expensive, baking materials are also very expensive. With the present economic state, we can’t eat a standard three-square meal without serious calculations,” Collins-Ossai laments. Similarly, Idara Nfoniso, a mother from Akwa Ibom State, South-South Nigeria, finds it increasingly difficult to make ends meet with the mounting expenses of basic necessities. “The cost of living in Nigeria is high, and getting money is difficult… surviving in this country is hard because the cost of living is too high,” she said.
Rita Efanga, a teacher supporting her family with her salary, faces a frustrating reality where most of her hard-earned money goes towards buying expensive food items and other essentials. “The high prices of foodstuffs and other essential things we need to survive are frustrating.
“The high prices of foodstuffs and other essential things we need to survive are frustrating. I can assure you that my N30,000 salary can’t do all these,” Efanga said.
The impact is also felt in the market, with traders like Lawrence James and Jolly Nkereuwem struggling to cope with price fluctuations and passing on the burden to both themselves and their customers.
“Regarding inflation rate, as a business person, things have not been the same… Prices of foodstuffs and other commodities increase abnormally,” Jolly Nkereuwem, a second-hand cloth seller said.
The Role of Climate Change and Conflict
The food security update by the World Bank identifies violent conflict, climate change, inflation, and rising food prices as the key drivers exacerbating Nigeria’s food insecurity situation. As the inflation rate continues to surge, the cost of goods and services, including food, soars, making it increasingly challenging for citizens to afford their basic needs.
The Call for Action
Recognising the gravity of the situation, Nigeria’s presidency recently declared a state of emergency on food security in Nigeria, directing the inclusion of food and water availability and affordability within the National Security Council’s purview. Additionally, the presidency ordered the immediate release of fertilizers and grains to support farmers and households impacted by subsidy removal. While this move is a step in the right direction, it remains to be seen if the government can muster the political will to carry through with the promise, as this is not the first time such an emergency has been declared.
Nigeria’s food insecurity crisis is a dire situation that requires urgent attention and concerted efforts from both the government and the private sector. The combination of climate change, conflict, and rising inflation poses a significant threat to millions of vulnerable citizens. As the presidency’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security offers a glimmer of hope, effective implementation of policies, investment in sustainable agricultural practices, and support for farmers and households will be crucial in tackling this complex crisis. By addressing the root causes and adopting innovative solutions, Nigeria can begin to pave the way towards a more food-secure future for its people.