Northern Nigeria hunger crisis at decade high, UN agency warns

Key facts

• Over 17 million people in northern Nigeria face severe hunger.
• The current hunger crisis is the worst in nearly a decade.
• Escalating violence and funding cuts are driving the hunger crisis.
• Borno state is particularly affected by the hunger crisis.
• At least 18 people have died in recent clashes in Niger state.
• Local reports claim the death toll in Niger state clashes is higher than official figures.
• Hundreds have been displaced due to the clashes in Niger state.
• The lean season exacerbates the hunger crisis.

The United Nations food agency has issued a stark warning regarding a severe hunger crisis in northern Nigeria, stating that over 17 million people are facing acute food insecurity. This marks the most severe situation in nearly a decade, exacerbated by escalating violence and significant funding cuts impacting humanitarian aid. Borno state is identified as particularly affected by this crisis.