The federal government has reported that over 31.8 million Nigerians are experiencing severe food shortages due to ongoing security issues and the recent elimination of fuel subsidies.

This information comes from a study by several international development partners, which highlights widespread malnutrition among women and children. The findings were shared with the government in meetings on Monday and Tuesday, as stated by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

The study, conducted by organizations such as the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, and the German development agency GIZ, used data from the Cadre Harmonise regional food security framework to assess nutrition levels.

According to the report,, “The surge in food commodity prices, which is as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy in addition to security challenges, has placed millions of Nigerians in a precarious situation.” 

Sanjo Faniran, Nigeria’s National Convener of Food Systems and Director of Social Development in the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, said that the study was instrumental in revealing gaps, successes, and challenges within the food system, and it provided important recommendations for improvement.