36.2 million Nigerians face hunger in 2026 lean season, Save the Children warns

Save the Children International has warned that 36.2 million Nigerians will face hunger during the 2026 lean season, driven by ongoing conflict, climate shocks, and rising food prices. The organization highlights that children are particularly vulnerable, with malnutrition rates expected to spike. The warning comes amid persistent insecurity in northern states, where farming communities are displaced by armed groups, and erratic rainfall patterns have reduced crop yields. Food inflation in Nigeria has exceeded 30% year-on-year, compounding the crisis. The Nigerian government has yet to announce a comprehensive response, while humanitarian agencies call for urgent funding and policy action.

Global Impact

Economically, the hunger crisis will strain Nigeria's fiscal position as the government may need to increase subsidies or imports, widening the budget deficit. Socially, widespread malnutrition could lead to long-term human capital losses, reducing future productivity.