The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has announced a temporary cessation of local food procurement in Nigeria until market prices stabilize, citing concerns over skyrocketing inflation and its impact on vulnerable populations.
In a recent news release, WFP’s monitoring exercise in Borno, Yobe, and Kano states highlighted the alarming surge in food prices, placing additional strain on displaced communities unable to engage in agricultural activities.
David Stevenson, WFP’s Country Director and Representative in Nigeria, underscored the organization’s limited food stocks and its commitment to assisting the most vulnerable Nigerians amidst challenging market conditions. Stevenson emphasized that WFP will resume purchasing food in Nigeria only when market conditions become conducive for all stakeholders.
Stevenson stated, “We are aware of traders holding food in their warehouses pretending it is WFP’s. This is inaccurate as WFP has its limited stock only available to continue supporting the most vulnerable Nigerians with critical assistance. We are undertaking a comprehensive review of our local food procurement. WFP will purchase food in Nigeria only when the market conditions are stable for all.”
The WFP aims to reach 1.1 million people across Nigeria and hopes to expand its assistance to 1.6 million individuals during the June–August period, known as “the lean season.”
Recent reports from NATIONAL ECONOMY highlight the decisions of major food producers like Olam Agric and Nigeria Flour Mills to halt grain purchases, including maize and sorghum, due to rapid price increases, allowing the market to stabilize. Escalating inflation and market prices have eroded the purchasing power of many Nigerian families, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Northeast Nigeria.
Projections from the World Bank and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) paint a grim picture of severe food crises in seven states across Northern Nigeria, with an estimated 26.5 million Nigerians facing hunger in 2024.
The federal government has initiated measures to address the food security crisis, including releasing grains from the national reserve to mitigate commodity price surges.
However, the WFP’s decision underscores the urgent need for broader interventions to stabilize food prices and ensure access to nutritious meals for all Nigerians.
