WFP: Over 36mn people struggling to meet food & nutrition needs in West & Central Africa

A recent food security analysis conducted by the Cadre Harmonisé has exposed a dire situation in West and Central Africa, with over 36 million people battling to meet their basic food and nutrition requirements. The prognosis is even more worrisome as the report predicts that this number is set to escalate to over 52 million by the lean season of June–August 2025, primarily due to enduring conflict, displacement, economic degradation, and recurrent extreme weather events in the region. David Stevenson, the Nigeria Country Director at World Food Programme (WFP), shared insights on the urgent need for a policy overhaul in Nigeria to deliver humanitarian solutions to the crisis and emphasized the importance of staying the course for the humanitarian community. Stevenson highlighted the interconnected nature of these challenges, emphasizing the geopolitical, economic, and developmental ramifications of the region's food insecurity crisis. Nigeria, in particular, is grappling with pressing issues as 5 million individuals in the northwest and northeast regions urgently require food assistance. Malnutrition rates are soaring, particularly among children, owing to conflict-induced hunger stemming from groups like Boko Haram and Iswap. The persistent food inflation is exacerbating the problem, with prices significantly higher than in previous years, making access to food increasingly challenging. Conflict-related incidents have further intensified the crisis, with Stevenson recounting alarming statistics such as 450 Boko Haram attacks in northeastern Nigeria from January to date, underscoring the insecurity plaguing the region. Despite some strides in addressing the challenges, Stevenson stressed the imperative of continued assistance to vulnerable populations for both humanitarian and stability reasons. Notably, efforts are also focused on reigniting economic growth opportunities in the affected regions. WFP's operations in Nigeria reflect a distinctive approach, with a substantial investment in the local agricultural economy. Approximately $100 million is allocated for purchasing local food and engaging local stakeholders for initiatives like the cash transfer program, which injects another $100 million into the agricultural sector. Stevenson likened his role to that of a corporate CEO, overseeing contracts with and supporting Nigerian enterprises to deliver aid efficiently. This localized strategy not only addresses immediate humanitarian needs effectively but also nurtures local solutions to engender sustainable outcomes. The Humanitarian Solutions strategy, crafted in collaboration with stakeholders like the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and the African Development Bank, represents a significant shift towards innovative, sustainable solutions. By investing in local production and fostering public-private partnerships, WFP aims to drive economic empowerment and self-reliance among beneficiaries. Stevenson emphasized the need for policy reforms in Nigeria to align with this transformative approach, advocating for a holistic strategy that prioritizes both immediate relief and long-term development. The focus on reviving agricultural productivity, particularly in conflict-affected regions, is seen as a key opportunity to address the root causes of food insecurity and foster stability. As the region grapples with looming challenges, concerted efforts toward integrated humanitarian and developmental solutions are deemed essential to mitigate the crisis effectively. Despite the prevailing hurdles, stakeholders like WFP remain committed to navigating the complexities to ensure a sustainable impact for the most vulnerable communities in West and Central Africa.