Conflict and Aid Shortfalls Push Hunger in Northern Nigeria to Decade-High Levels

The UN World Food Programme warns that food insecurity in northern Nigeria is rising faster than expected. Conflict in the northeast and cuts to humanitarian aid are driving hunger to levels not seen in nearly ten years. A recent analysis shows over 17 million people across nine affected states are facing crisis, emergency, or catastrophic hunger. In Borno alone, more than three million people are acutely food insecure, including over 750,000 in severe conditions and 10,000 at catastrophic risk. Violent attacks, displacement, and shrinking funding have restricted access to vulnerable communities. Roadblocks, illegal checkpoints, and security threats are hampering deliveries, making airlifts the only viable option in some areas. With support now limited to 740,000 people, more than 5.5 million vulnerable individuals—including many children—have been left without lifesaving aid. The agency warns that without an urgent injection of $89 million over the next six months, coping strategies may spiral into exploitation, gender-based harm, and recruitment by armed groups.

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