Lean Season May Worsen Food Crisis
The United Nations has warned that about 35 million Nigerians could face acute hunger between June and August.
The UN Humanitarian Country Team made this known on Friday in New York City.
According to the organisation, Nigeria is entering a deeper food crisis as the lean season approaches.
It said nearly one in seven Nigerians may struggle with severe food insecurity during the period.
Northern Nigeria Carries Heaviest Burden
The UN noted that Nigeria remains one of the world’s biggest hunger hotspots.
However, the crisis is expected to hit northern Nigeria the hardest.
The organisation said millions of vulnerable households already face worsening conditions.
As food supplies shrink, many families may face deeper hardship.
Delayed Support Could Hurt Families
The UN warned that delayed humanitarian aid could worsen the crisis.
As a result, many households may cut meals further to survive.
Some families could also sell key assets to meet basic needs.
In severe cases, parents may withdraw children from school.
The agency said such decisions could create long-term social and economic damage.
Millions of Children Face Malnutrition
Across North-West and North-East Nigeria, the UN expects 6.4 million children to suffer acute malnutrition this year.
This raises fresh concerns over child survival and healthcare pressure.
The agency stressed the need for urgent support to protect vulnerable children.
UN Appeals for Emergency Funding
Meanwhile, the UN and its partners have called for immediate funding support.
The organisation said stronger financial backing will help expand life-saving assistance.
It also warned that existing resources remain inadequate.
Funding Gap Remains a Major Challenge
The 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan stands at $516 million.
However, the plan has received only a little above 40 per cent funding.
According to the latest humanitarian response report, donors had provided just $215 million as of May 2026.
Therefore, aid agencies continue to face serious funding pressure.
Urgent Action Needed
The UN said faster intervention remains critical.
Without timely support, millions of Nigerians may face worsening hunger in the coming months.
