UNICEF Warns of Food Insecurity for 35 Million Nigerians

UNICEF has raised an alarm that 35 million Nigerians across 27 states are projected to face food insecurity during the 2026 lean season, with no fewer than three million children at risk of severe acute malnutrition. This disclosure was made in Abuja during a high-level bilateral meeting between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Spain, which focused on strengthening cooperation in food security and nutrition, as well as sustainable livestock development.

UNICEF's representative highlighted that malnutrition remains a leading underlying cause of child mortality in Nigeria, with devastating long-term consequences for cognitive development and national growth. The meeting, attended by Mr.

Ant N. Lei Garc and Dr.

Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated, data-driven, local-led interventions to avert a worsening humanitarian crisis, particularly among vulnerable households. The discussions also included strategies to improve livestock systems and enhance food security in the face of climate change and economic pressures.