Northern Nigeria Hunger Crisis Worsens

Northern Nigeria is facing its worst hunger crisis in nearly a decade, with over 17 million people across nine conflict-affected states experiencing severe levels of hunger. This crisis is driven by escalating violence from Islamist insurgents and armed gangs, which has displaced communities, prevented farmers from accessing their fields, and restricted humanitarian access. The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that the situation is worsening faster than anticipated, with Nigeria — Borno State being the hardest hit. Despite the growing need, WFP's ability to provide assistance has been severely hampered by extreme funding shortfalls and increasing inaccessibility to affected areas. Aid cuts from Western countries and rising poverty due to President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms, which have fueled inflation, are further compounding the crisis. The WFP has appealed for $89 million to continue its operations over the next six months, warning that failure to secure these funds will deepen hunger, trigger further displacement, and spread instability across the region. The suspension of food assistance has also led to desperate coping strategies, including individuals joining armed groups and an alarming escalation in exploitation and gender-based harm.