People are dying out of hunger in Nigeria
By Adamu Zainab Ajeje
Food is one of the human basic needs in this life, However severe malnutrition and starvation are prevalent due to hunger and famine.food in security in Nigeria increases the economic situation and the constant surge in price of good people can no longer afford to feed thrice daily.
Businesses are almost collapsing, continuos rise in the prices of food is making difficult for people to feed themselves and their family properly some people go to bed with hunger most times.
Nigerians facing hunger can also be due to combination of factors which are interconnected.
POVERTY: A significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line, making it difficult for them to afford adequate food and basic necessities.
UNEMEMPLOYMENT: High levels of unemployment and underemployment limit people’s ability to earn a steady income and provide for their families.
ECONOMIC CHALLENGES: Fluctuations in the economy, inflation, and lack of economic opportunities can affect people’s purchasing power and access to food.
CONFLICT AND INSECURITY: Ongoing conflicts and insecurity in certain regions disrupt agricultural activities, displacement of populations, and hinder the distribution of food aid.
INADEQUATE INFRASTRUCTURE: Poor infrastructure, including roads and transportation, can hinder the distribution of food from rural areas to urban centers.
CLIMATE CHANGES: Erratic weather patterns, droughts, and floods can negatively impact agricultural productivity and food production.
LACK OF ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE: Poor healthcare infrastructure and limited access to medical services contribute to malnutrition and related health issues.
CORRUPTION: Corruption can divert resources away from addressing hunger and poverty, limiting the effectiveness of programs meant to alleviate these issues.
LIMITED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION: Outdated farming techniques, lack of access to modern agricultural practices, and insufficient investment in the agricultural sector can reduce food production.
RAPID URBANISATION: Urbanisation can strain resources in cities, leading to increased demand for food and services that the existing infrastructure may not be able to meet.
In GLOBAL HUNGER INDEX (GHI) Nigeria has been ranked 103 out of 121 countries in 2022 GHI with the score of 27.3 hunger level falling under the serious category.
The index has five level of hunger under which each country falls.Low,moderate,serious,alarming and extremely alarming.and Nigeria has been ranked twice on the same scale.
In conclusion, the dire situation in Nigeria demands urgent attention. The widespread hunger crisis is taking a devastating toll on the lives of its citizens.
Immediate collaborative efforts from local and international organisations, governments, and communities are essential to provide relief, food aid, and sustainable solutions to address this pressing issue.The world must unite to alleviate the suffering and ensure a brighter future for those affected by this heartbreaking situation.
Adamu Zainab Ajeje, sent this piece from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Department of Mass Communication. You can reach Ajeje via
Adamuajejezainab@gmail.com
