Rising Hunger and Malnutrition in Nigeria: A Looming Crisis
Nutrition experts have expressed deep concern over the increasing hunger in Nigeria, driven by economic hardship. They warn that this situation could significantly worsen the country’s malnutrition burden, particularly among children. If urgent action is not taken, more children may become stunted, which has long-term consequences for their health and development.
One of the most alarming trends is that children under the age of five are now attending school on an empty stomach. This lack of proper nutrition can lead to weakened immunity, difficulty concentrating in class, and even impaired cognitive development. These issues can result in poor academic performance and lower intelligence quotient (IQ) levels, which may affect their future opportunities.
The cost of food has risen sharply in recent months, with staple foods such as garri, rice, and bread becoming increasingly unaffordable. In addition, the prices of bottled water, soft drinks, and other essential items have also surged. This economic strain has left many families struggling to meet basic needs, exacerbating hunger and poverty across the nation.
Experts emphasize that the Federal Government must take immediate steps to address the crisis. Without intervention, children facing hunger will likely suffer from malnutrition, anemia, and stunting, all of which hinder their ability to reach their full potential and contribute to national development.
According to the National Demographic and Health Survey 2018, one in three Nigerian children is currently suffering from stunting. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that 23.5 million out of 35 million children in the country suffer from anaemia. These figures highlight the severity of the problem and the urgent need for action.
Prof. Ngozi Nnam, President of the Federation of African Nutrition Societies, stressed that the economic situation is having a devastating impact on children. She explained that many families are going to bed hungry, unable to afford even one meal a day. As a result, children are often sent to school without breakfast, which affects their concentration and overall academic performance.
Nnam pointed out that the effects of malnutrition go beyond physical growth. Stunting also impacts cognitive development, making it harder for children to learn and perform well in school. She warned that the next national health survey could reveal even more alarming statistics if the current economic challenges persist.
In addition to stunting, UNICEF reported that 12 million children under five are stunted, while three million others are wasted. These conditions are serious public health concerns that require immediate attention. Nigeria signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991, and the Child Rights Act was enacted in 2003. However, only 29 out of 36 states have fully implemented the act, leaving many children without adequate protection.
Prof. Wasiu Afolabi, former President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, echoed these concerns, stating that malnutrition has both short- and long-term effects on children. He emphasized that Nigeria has the highest burden of stunted children in Africa, which poses a significant challenge to national development.
Afolabi also highlighted the role of insecurity in worsening the food crisis. Farmers are unable to cultivate their land due to ongoing conflicts, leading to reduced food production and higher prices. He urged the government to implement policies and programs that ensure food availability and affordability for all citizens.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) warns that between June and August 2024, up to 2.6 million people in Borno, Sokoto, Zamfara, and the FCT may face a food crisis. This underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of hunger and malnutrition in the country.
With rising food prices, economic instability, and limited access to nutritious food, the situation for children in Nigeria is dire. Experts agree that without swift and coordinated action, the nation’s malnutrition burden will continue to grow, affecting generations to come.
