The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), , has expressed concern over the alleged worsening food insecurity in northern Nigeria, describing the situation as a major national challenge that requires urgent intervention.
Obi’s reaction followed reports by the United Nations World Food Programme indicating that more than 17 million people across nine northern states are facing crisis-level hunger, while over 35 million Nigerians could be affected during the ongoing lean season.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, the former governor said the development reflected serious shortcomings in leadership and national planning, particularly as the northern region remains the country’s major food-producing belt.
He noted that more than 10,000 residents have reportedly entered catastrophic hunger conditions, describing the situation as a humanitarian emergency that demands immediate attention.
Obi attributed the growing food crisis to persistent insecurity and the inability of farmers to gain access to their farmlands. According to him, banditry and insurgency have displaced farming communities and severely affected agricultural activities across several states in the region.
He said, “Until we secure our agricultural areas, we cannot secure our future. Banditry and insurgency have turned many farming communities into displacement zones, making it impossible for farmers to cultivate their lands and contribute to national food security.”
The former Anambra State governor urged the Federal Government and state administrations to move beyond political rhetoric and invest in securing agricultural corridors, while also providing adequate support for smallholder farmers to boost food production.
He further called for stronger collaboration with international partners, including the World Food Programme, to address funding gaps and mitigate the impact of the crisis on vulnerable populations, especially children.
Recent assessments by humanitarian agencies indicate that conflict, displacement and declining humanitarian assistance are pushing northern Nigeria towards its worst hunger crisis in nearly a decade, with millions of people facing severe food insecurity.
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