How rising insecurity threatens food security in Nigeria

The Food and Agriculture Organization has expressed deep concerns about the escalating food security crisis in Nigeria, with the World Bank reporting that seven million Nigerians fell below the poverty line in 2020. President Muhammadu Buhari has pointed to the correlation between poverty, unemployment, and the increase in insecurity in the country, emphasizing the urgent need to address these interconnected challenges. To shed light on the situation, Kola Masha, Managing Director at Babban Gona, joined CNBC Africa to discuss the implications of rising insecurity on food security in Nigeria. The conversation highlighted the critical role of agriculture in job creation and the obstacles faced by smallholder farmers in accessing essential resources. Masha underscored the urgent need for increased capital infusion to support agricultural entrepreneurs and combat the spread of insecurity. The interview also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government in addressing the root causes of the crisis. With a population of 200 million people and a limited capacity for food importation, Nigeria faces significant risks if its food production regions continue to face disruptions. The call to action extends beyond government intervention, urging all sectors of society to participate in safeguarding food security and promoting economic stability.