The World Bank’s Food Security Update Report reveals Nigeria’s worsening food security crisis. Over one million additional people face severe food insecurity in 2024 compared to the previous year.
“Conversely, some countries saw improvements. Nations such as Afghanistan, Guatemala, and Kenya reported declines in food insecurity, with more than one million fewer people facing acute food crises…”
Nigeria’s crisis stems from climate-induced issues and socio-political instability. Flooding has inundated 1.6 million hectares of land, including 342,650 hectares of cropland, affecting 685,770 vulnerable individuals.
“In Nigeria… domestic food price inflation remains among the highest globally, with food prices increasing by 37.5% year-on-year as of August 2024.”
This price surge strains household incomes, making basic food items unaffordable for low-income families.
The report highlights:
– 18 countries, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Yemen, face worsening food security due to conflict and climate-related shocks.
– Flooding and droughts affect approximately 3.5 million people, requiring emergency support, with $50m needed to aid 760,200 communities.
– Cameroon, Central African Republic, and other West African countries face flooding, while northern Nigeria and Ghana experience dry spells.
The World Bank urges urgent intervention to address immediate food needs and improve resilience against climate shocks.
“On the other hand, 18 countries experienced worsening situations due to factors including intensified conflict and climate-related shocks, such as droughts. Notable examples include Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Yemen, each witnessing an increase of more than one million people facing high levels of food insecurity…”
