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About 26.5 million may grapple with food insecurity in 2024- Report
About 26.5 million may grapple with food insecurity in 2024- Report
By: Michael Mike
About 26.5 million Nigerians may grapple with high level of food insecurity in 2024, according to 2023 Cadre Harmonisé analysis on food insecurity.
This figure was released by the Government of Nigeria and its partners during the unveiling of the October 2023 Cadre Harmonisé analysis on food insecurity.
Also, approximately 9 million children are at risk of suffering from acute malnutrition or wasting. Of these, an alarming 2.6 million children could face Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and require critical nutrition treatment.
The Cadre Harmonisé, an initiative focused on food and nutrition analysis, conducts studies biannually (in March and October) across 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). With the Government’s leadership and the United Nations (UN) system’s support, the latest projection for 2024 indicates a sharp rise from the 18.6 million people currently vulnerable to food insecurity from October to December 2023.
According to the report, several factors are driving this trend, including ongoing conflicts, climate change impacts, escalating inflation, and rising costs of both food and essential non-food commodities (in part due to the devaluation of the naira and the discontinuation of the fuel subsidy), adding that persistent violence in the north-eastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) hinders food availability and access, with additionally, armed banditry and kidnappings in northwest and north-central states, including Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, Benue, and Niger, exacerbate the prevailing economic struggles.
According to a joint press statement on Friday by the World Food Programme, FAO, UNICEF, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, underscored the significance of the Cadre Harmonisé during a presentation in Abuja.
Represented by Mrs. Fausat Lawal, Director of Special Duties, Umekhihe highlighted that despite Government efforts, external challenges like the ongoing global economic effects of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war, which disrupts food systems, persist.
Of the 18.6 million people who experience food insecurity today, 3.3 million live in the northeastern states of the BAY region. This number might rise to 26.5 million nationwide by the height of the 2024 lean season ( and to 4.4 million in the BAY states) if immediate action is not taken.
The FAO Representative ad interim in Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Dominique Koffy Kouacou, while calling on the Government to expand CH coverage to the remaining 10 states said, FAO would continue to support the Government and the people of Nigeria to overcome food insecurity and malnutrition.
He stated that: “In 2024, alongside our partners, FAO’s focus will be on agrifood systems transformation with deliberate attention on resilience-building, nutrition-sensitive agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and providing extension services.”
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that floods in October 2023 in Adamawa impacted around 8,500 households, leading to mass displacements, particularly among women, children, and the elderly. Such extreme weather patterns, linked to the El Niño phenomenon, are further undermining food security.
“Food insecurity and malnutrition are among the main drivers of humanitarian need in the BAY states,” said the head of OCHA in Nigeria, Mr. Trond Jensen.
“People have been forced to adopt negative coping mechanisms such as survival sex and child labour to stay alive. Over the past year, dozens of farmers have lost their lives, and others have been abducted or injured while eking out a living outside the security perimeters of Borno’s garrison towns due to limited farming lands and few or no livelihood options.”
UNICEF’s Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, emphasized the urgent need for action. She said, “Every child deserves proper nutrition and a life free from hunger. It’s not merely a responsibility but a moral duty for governments and the global community to ensure these rights are upheld.”
Highlighting the long-standing issue, WFP’s Country Representative, David Stevenson,said: “The hunger crisis in Nigeria, fueled by the ongoing conflict in the northeast, needs urgent addressing. Restoring peace in the northeast is critical for us to build pathways to production and achieve the northeast’s potential as the food basket of the country”.
Trend analysis for the northeastern states indicates consistently high or rising food insecurity levels since 2018. Over 4 million people have needed urgent assistance annually since June 2020.
The United Nations urges the Nigerian Government, donors, and stakeholders to commit resources and implement measures to avert a potential food and nutrition disaster, emphasizing the need for immediate support across the nation.
The Cadre Harmonisé analysis covered 26 of Nigeria’s 36 states, including the FCT. It represents a collaborative effort led by the Nigerian government, in association with regional technical agencies, UN bodies, and NGOs. The Cadre Harmonisé serves as a comprehensive tool to evaluate present and future food and nutrition scenarios.
About 26.5 million may grapple with food insecurity in 2024- Report
News
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
By: Vincent Ikuomola
The National Directorate of Employment has distanced itself from the message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide.
NDE in its disclaimer said the message is fake and it did not emanate from its office.
The Directorate therefore urged the general public to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
NDE management also said any official announcements, programmes, or directives from it are communicated through verified channels such as its official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
The agency stated in a disclaimer: “The attention of the management of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has been drawn to a message circulating on social media urging unemployed persons to register at any NDE office nationwide, claiming the registration will last for three weeks and encouraging the public to share the information widely.
“The NDE wishes to categorically state that this information is false and did not originate from us. The public is advised to disregard the message in its entirety and refrain from acting on it.
“Any official announcements, programmes, or directives from the NDE are communicated through verified channels such as our official website, social media handles, offices nationwide and recognized media outlets.
“We urge the public to verify any information attributed to the NDE to avoid being misled by false or unauthorized communications.
NDE disclaims message urging unemployed to register in its offices
News
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has reaffirmed her commitment to fostering global sustainability at the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Week held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who made the reaffirmation on behalf of the Nigerian government,
emphasized the country’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, climate action, and energy transition.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role as a key player in Africa’s green energy transition and its commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Tuggar also stated that “the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week provides an important platform for nations to collaborate, innovate, and accelerate solutions to global sustainability challenges. Nigeria is committed to fostering international partnerships and implementing policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As Africa’s largest economy, we recognize our duty to lead by example and champion a sustainable future for our continent and the world.”
The highlights of Nigeria’s participation in the event included showcasing the country’s Decade of Gas Initiative, which positions natural gas as a transitional energy source while scaling investments in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
The Minister reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 and outlined ongoing projects such as afforestation programmes, renewable energy infrastructure, and climate-resilient agricultural practicesbeing undertaken by the government.
He also noted Nigeria’s willingness to partner with international stakeholders to finance and implement innovative solutions in clean energy, waste management, and sustainable urban development, while advocating for increased support for African nations in climate financing, technology transfer, and capacity-building, stressing the importance of inclusivity in global sustainability efforts.
He said: “The world is at a critical juncture where the choices we make today will define the legacy we leave for future generations. Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with our global partners to ensure that no nation or region is left behind in the quest for a sustainable future.”
The Minister, on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extended gratitude to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and fostering dialogue on these crucial issues.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Sustainability at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
News
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
By: Michael Mike
In a bid to address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria, the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers
Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has urged the National Assembly to allocate adequate funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development.
As various Federal Ministries, Parastatals, Directorates, and Institutions appeared before the National Assembly to defend their 2025 budget. KACRAN passionately appeal for their support in prioritizing the Ministry of Livestock Development, insisting that this is essential for fostering peace and stability in the country.
In a statement on Friday, the association outlines the rationale for its request to include: “New Ministry with Significant Potential, Established by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to resolve the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers while enhancing food security and economic productivity. By creating millions of jobs and attracting investment in the livestock sector, this ministry holds
great promise.
“Leadership of High Calibre: KACRAN is optimistic about the ministry’s success under the leadership of distinguished individuals such as Honourable Alhaji Idi Muktar, the pioneer minister and a seasoned livestock farmer, along with Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma
Akujobi, a Veterinary Doctor, and Mrs. Winnie Lai Solarin, the dedicated Director of Animal Husbandry Services. Their commitment to advancing government policies will significantly
benefit the livestock sector.
“Empowering Voiceless Beneficiaries: It is crucial to advocate for the voiceless beneficiaries residing in remote areas, who often have limited access to government services. The establishment of this ministry provides a vital opportunity for our members to become direct beneficiaries of national resources.
“Significant Presidential Support: The President has demonstrated a strong commitment to the livestock sector through the establishment of this ministry and the appointment of qualified personnel. It is imperative that the National Assembly recognizes the importance of this ministry
in the upcoming budget discussions
“Need for Structural Support: The Ministry currently lacks essential infrastructure necessary for its effective operation. Therefore, we urge members of the National Assembly to provide special
consideration and favorable budget allocations to ensure the ministry’s success.
“Consequences of Inadequate Funding: Insufficient funding could severely hinder the ministry’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities, which would have negative repercussions for the entire country. The livestock sector is vital for our economy, contributing significantly to revenue
generation and providing essential products consumed by nearly all Nigerians.”
KACRAN said: “In light of the numerous benefits that an effectively functioning Ministry of Livestock Development can bring, once again we appeal to members of the National Assembly to consider multiplying or tripling the proposed budget for this ministry. Such action will pave the
way for increased agricultural production, job creation, economic growth, resolution of conflicts between herders and farmers, and the establishment of lasting peace in Nigeria.”
It extended heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry
and the appointment of capable leadership, while calling upon all Northern Governors to expedite the establishment of similar ministries in their states.”
KACRAN Appeals for Increased Funding for the Ministry of Livestock Development to Combat Insecurity
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