The Hungry Nation: Nigeria’s Food Basket State in Crisis

Benue State, recognized as Nigeria’s food basket, is currently experiencing an extraordinary crisis due to escalating violence and assaults on farmers. As reported by Amnesty International, more than 100 individuals lost their lives in Yelwata, a prominent agricultural community, during a single assault. This event has heightened worries regarding food security within the nation, with potential extensive consequences for the country’s food supply. The assaults have forced many farmers to flee, resulting in a notable reduction in food production. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) indicated that over 341 individuals were killed in a single series of attacks in Ukum, which is home to the Zaki Biam International Yam Market. Consequently, there has been a dramatic increase in food prices, with yam prices in some regions doubling. The crisis has also caused a scarcity of essential crops such as rice, maize, cassava, and soybeans.

Alarming Surge in Food Inflation

Food inflation in Benue State has escalated to its highest point in five years, reaching 51.78% in April 2025. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that food inflation in the state has been consistently increasing since 2022, with a significant surge in 2025 attributed to violent attacks. This concerning trend presents a serious threat to the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians reliant on the state’s agricultural output. Experts caution that if the violence persists, Nigeria may confront severe hunger and elevated food inflation. Ike Ibeabuchi, an analyst specializing in emerging markets, remarked, “We are flirting with severe hunger. When we permit terrorists to devastate a state that supplies our food, we will inevitably encounter acute hunger, extremely high food inflation, and a social crisis.” The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has also voiced apprehensions regarding the crisis, with its president, Ibrahim Kabiru, indicating that the recent security challenges in vital food-producing states will disrupt the nation’s food production and drive up prices.

National Implications and Humanitarian Concerns

The situation in Benue State carries significant national ramifications, with possible food shortages and rising prices impacting millions of Nigerians. The UN World Food Programme estimates that approximately 33 million Nigerians could face food insecurity by 2025. This issue is exacerbated by the existence of 196,502 internally displaced persons (IDPs) within the nation, many of whom are farmers compelled to abandon their homes due to violence. The circumstances in Benue State necessitate urgent intervention to avert a humanitarian disaster. The government is required to implement tangible measures to tackle the insecurity and assist farmers in maintaining food production and accessibility. AFAN has urged for immediate action to confront the insecurity and avert a food crisis. Without prompt measures, millions of Nigerians may encounter severe hunger and food insecurity, leading to potentially catastrophic effects on the nation’s economy and social stability. The crisis in Benue State serves as a critical reminder for the Nigerian government to undertake decisive measures to safeguard its farmers and guarantee food security. Additionally, the international community must extend support to mitigate the humanitarian crisis and prevent further distress. The well-being of millions of Nigerians hinges on the government’s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to this crisis.