Millions in Nigeria face rising hunger risk, UN warns
The United Nations has issued a warning about a worsening hunger crisis in Nigeria. According to the UN Humanitarian Country Team in New York City, about 35 million Nigerians could experience acute food insecurity during the upcoming lean season. The crisis is especially severe in the northern regions, with millions of children at risk of malnutrition. The UN and its partners are urgently appealing for more funding to address the situation.
What we know
- The United Nations warned that about 35 million Nigerians are at risk of acute hunger from June to August.
- The lean season, which runs from June to August, is expected to be particularly challenging for food security.
- The UN said an estimated 6.4 million children in North-west and North-east Nigeria are likely to be acutely malnourished this year.
- The Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for the year 2026 is just over 40 per cent funded, with only 215 million dollars received out of 516 million dollars as of May 2026.
- The UN emphasized that delays in assistance could force families to reduce meals, sell assets, or withdraw children from school.
