Obi Raises Alarm Over UN Warning on Northern Nigeria Food Crisis, Demands Action

Presidential candidate Peter Obi has voiced serious concerns over a United Nations warning about a deepening food crisis in Northern Nigeria. He stressed the urgent need for government intervention to avert a worsening humanitarian challenge.

Obi, who is also the 2027 presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), described the situation as troubling, especially given that northern Nigeria is traditionally the nation's food basket. He emphasized the necessity for more effective policy implementation to tackle the growing crisis.

"Insecurity, including banditry and insurgency, has prevented many farmers from accessing their farmlands and remains a major obstacle to agricultural production," Obi stated. He called for enhanced security in farming communities, alongside increased investment in rural infrastructure and agricultural productivity. He also urged governments to partner with the UN World Food Programme and other development partners to address funding gaps.

The former Anambra governor cited UN reports indicating that over 17 million people in nine northern states face crisis-level hunger, with more than 35 million Nigerians nationwide at risk during the current lean season. He also noted reports of over 10,000 residents in Borno experiencing 'catastrophic hunger conditions'. Obi believes Nigeria has the potential to significantly reduce hunger and poverty with appropriate measures, including production-driven economic policies and expanded agro-industrial output.

“

Insecurity, including banditry and insurgency, has prevented many farmers from accessing their farmlands and remains a major obstacle to agricultural production.