Nigeria, a nation of over 216 million people, is grappling with a growing crisis – hunger. The effects of economic hardship, inflation, and food scarcity have led to widespread protests across the nation. In this periscope, we delve into the stories of those affected, the root causes of the crisis, and the government’s response.

Diaspora Watch spoke with some protesters to know why they are on the streets. According to Mrs. Adebayo, a mother of three from Lagos said she hasn’t eaten in days, and her children cry every night because they’re hungry. She’s protesting because she wants the government to know they’re suffering. “I can’t afford to feed my family. I’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work. I’m here today because I want the government to know we’re starving.”

Mallam Abdullahi, a farmer from Kano said he’s seen his crops destroyed by herders, and he can’t make ends meet. He’s protesting because he wants the government to address the conflict between farmers and herders.

“I’ve lost everything. My crops, my livelihood. I’m here today because I want the government to know we’re suffering.”

Nigeria’s economic woes began with the COVID-19 pandemic, which ravaged the global economy. The country’s over-reliance on oil exports made it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices. As prices plummeted, Nigeria’s revenue dwindled, leading to a recession.

The food inflation rate has soared to 24.8% as of July 2024, the highest in 18 years, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The number of hungry people has increased to 21.7 million, affecting 1 in 9 Nigerians, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization. The poverty rate has risen to 42.3%, with 91.4 million people living below the poverty line, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The unemployment rate has also increased to 35.1%, the highest in 15 years, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics.

The government has responded with promises of relief measures, including food distribution and economic stimulus packages. However, critics argue that these measures are insufficient and poorly implemented. The government has budgeted N750 billion, approximately $1.8 billion USD, for social investment programs in 2024, and 3.5 million people are expected to benefit from the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) in 2024, according to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

The hunger protests in Nigeria are a cry for change. Citizens demand action from their government to address the growing crisis. As the situation worsens, the government must listen and act decisively to avoid further unrest.