Peter Obi Warns of Worsening Hunger Crisis in Northern Nigeria

Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi has warned that a severe food crisis is unfolding in northern Nigeria. He cited a United Nations World Food Programme report indicating that more than 17 million people across nine northern states are experiencing crisis‑level hunger, while over 35 million Nigerians nationwide face acute food‑insecurity during the current lean season. In Borno State alone, over 10,000 residents have entered "catastrophic" hunger conditions.

Obi attributed the crisis to poor leadership and ongoing insecurity, including banditry and insurgency that have displaced farmers and restricted access to farmland. He called on the federal and state governments to secure agricultural corridors, provide direct support to smallholder farmers, and work closely with the World Food Programme to close funding gaps.

The statements were posted on his X account and emphasize that Nigeria, despite its fertile northern lands, should not rank among the world’s hungriest nations.