The United Nations has warned that about 35 million Nigerians are at risk of acute hunger between June and August.
The UN Humanitarian Country Team said Nigeria is facing a deepening hunger crisis, with millions at risk as the lean season approaches.
“Nearly one in seven people — that is, 35 million Nigerians — are likely to face acute food insecurity during this year’s lean season, which runs from June to August,” the UN said.
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The latest report ranks Nigeria among the world’s largest hunger crises, with the burden falling overwhelmingly on the northern part of the country.
“If assistance is further delayed, millions of families will be forced to reduce meals, sell assets, or withdraw their children from school, with well-known long-term consequences,” the UN added.
Across North-west and North-east Nigeria, an estimated 6.4 million children are likely to suffer acute malnutrition this year.
“We and our partners are appealing for urgent funding to scale up life-saving assistance,” the UN stated.
The 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, which requires $516 million, is currently just over 40 per cent funded. As of May 2026, only $215 million has been received.
