A new report has revealed the growing struggle of Nigerian households to access nutritious and preferred meals due to financial constraints. According to the General Household Survey-Panel Wave 5 (2023/2024), released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) with support from the World Bank, 65.8% of households across the country struggled to secure healthy food in the past month. The data paints a troubling picture of deepening food insecurity, signaling that hunger, food shortages, and socio-economic vulnerability are escalating nationwide.
The survey provides a detailed look at the eating habits and concerns of Nigerian families. A significant 63.8% of households reported having to rely on a limited range of foods, reflecting the impact of financial constraints. Additionally, 62.4% voiced concerns about the possibility of running out of food, while 60.5% admitted to eating less than they felt was sufficient to meet their needs. These percentages highlight the struggles faced by many households, with 12.3% revealing that at least one member went an entire day without food, and 20.8% resorting to borrowing food or seeking assistance from friends. The statistics not only emphasize the prevalence of hunger but also reflect a deeper crisis in basic survival, as many Nigerians find it increasingly difficult to meet essential needs.
Southern zones at the centre of worsening food crisis.
Food Insecurity is not a new challenge for Nigeria, but it has worsened in recent years due to multiple factors. The country has long been grappling with rising Inflation and subsidy removal, which have consistently pushed up the costs of food and transportation. These economic pressures have often led to public unrest and dissatisfaction. Now, the situation is exacerbated by climate change, with southern regions facing frequent floods and northern areas enduring prolonged droughts. These environmental disruptions have severely impacted agricultural productivity, further straining the country’s food supply. This combination of economic and environmental pressures have deepened vulnerabilities that have been growing for years.
Regional disparities are evident in the report, highlighting the unequal impact of the food crisis. Southern zones, particularly the South-South region, are at the center of the worsening situation. More than 60% of households in this area have had to skip meals because of financial difficulties, with recurrent flooding destroying local Agriculture and livelihoods. In the North Central zone, food insecurity has surged, with concerns rising from 16.2% in 2018/19 to 44.9%. The South West zone also saw an increase, though less dramatic, from 46.7% to 61.7%. These numbers demonstrate that food insecurity is not just a regional issue but a nationwide crisis.
Female-headed households face greater struggles in Nigeria’s food crisis.
One of the most alarming findings in the report is the disproportionate impact on female-headed households. About 72.2% of homes led by women were unable to afford nutritious meals, compared to 64% of male-led households. This disparity becomes even more apparent when considering households that completely ran out of food; 55.2% of female-headed homes were affected, as opposed to 41.3% of those led by men. Female farmers, who are essential contributors to food production in rural areas, face unique barriers, such as limited access to land, financial support, and markets. These obstacles, combined with rising living costs, make it even harder for women to sustain their families.
Furthermore, the issue of food insecurity has intensified significantly since 2018. The percentage of households worried about their food supply has increased from 36.9% in 2018/2019 to 62.4% in 2023/2024. Seasonal patterns also stand out, with June, July, and August being particularly challenging for food availability, especially for families that depend on local harvests. The North East region reported the highest levels of food scarcity, affecting 53% of households, while the North Central zone had the lowest figures at 25.7%. This situation highlights the ongoing impact of Poverty and conflict on agricultural productivity, which hinders food access across the country.
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Without a coordinated and swift response, Nigeria risks facing significant consequences including worsening malnutrition, decreased school attendance, and growing social unrest. Addressing this crisis requires urgent and comprehensive action. The government must prioritise Sustainable Agricultural development, reduce dependence on imported food, and explore community-driven solutions like urban farming and food banks. Failure to act decisively could have far-reaching and lasting effects on Nigeria’s social and economic stability. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. It calls for a strategic and collaborative approach involving the government, private sector, and international partners to prevent a deepening crisis and secure a more stable food future for all Nigerians.