Impact of conflict on food security in Nigeria

The latest state of food insecurity and nutrition report, a joint effort by five UN agencies, has highlighted a concerning trend - global hunger levels are on the rise, affecting 11 percent of the world's population. The report points to conflict, climate change, and economic risks as key factors contributing to this alarming increase. Countries such as Nigeria, Somalia, and Yemen are particularly vulnerable and at risk of famine, requiring immediate attention and intervention. To delve deeper into the impact of conflict on food security in Nigeria, Cindy Hormans, a senior economist at the Food Agriculture Organization, sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the ongoing challenges and strategies to address the crisis. Conflict zones, such as the North East region of Nigeria, pose significant obstacles to delivering essential food supplies to vulnerable populations. Inaccessible areas and volatile security situations hinder humanitarian organizations like the FAO and World Food Programme (WFP) from reaching those most in need. However, where access is possible, efforts have been made to provide critical food aid and livelihood assistance to displaced individuals. Supporting farmers by distributing seeds and tools is crucial to helping them rebuild their livelihoods and become self-sufficient once again. Despite these efforts, the ever-present threat of conflict continues to disrupt food access and drive up prices, further exacerbating the situation. The FAO emphasizes the importance of not just focusing on food production but also on improving access to food and addressing the underlying drivers of conflict. The North East region of Nigeria, known for its high poverty levels and environmental challenges like land degradation, requires sustained investment in development and resilience-building. Additionally, tackling issues such as resource competition and high food prices is pivotal in promoting stability and food security in the region. Climate change emerges as a critical factor intensifying the food security crisis in Nigeria and other conflict-affected areas globally. The combination of climate-related shocks, such as droughts and floods, with existing conflicts has severe consequences, pushing vulnerable communities to the brink of famine. Countries like Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen are grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change, further complicating efforts to ensure food security for their populations. Cindy Hormans underscores the urgent need for climate-smart agriculture and resilient farming systems to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on food production. While conflict, climate change, and economic downturns continue to threaten food security, proactive measures to enhance resilience and promote peace are essential to combating hunger and malnutrition. The intersection of these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of conflict, invests in sustainable development, and prioritizes climate resilience in agriculture. As the world navigates a complex landscape of conflicts and climate-related disasters, concerted efforts and international cooperation are imperative to safeguarding food security and protecting the most vulnerable populations.