ABUJA, June 17 (AGCNewsNet) — Nigeria has been listed among 13 global hunger hotspots in a new report by the United Nations, which warns that acute food insecurity in the country’s northern regions is likely to worsen in the coming months.

The joint “Hunger Hotspots” report, released on Monday by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP), highlighted conflict, economic instability, and climate shocks as key drivers of the food crisis.

“In Nigeria, escalating violence in northern states is likely to drive widespread displacement, reduce access and hinder agricultural activity,” the report said, noting that macroeconomic challenges, including soaring inflation and rising living costs, are pushing millions deeper into hunger.

The report predicts that acute food insecurity will deteriorate particularly in the North-East and North-West, where insurgency and banditry have displaced thousands and disrupted food production.

The warning comes amid a broader global alert, with other hotspots such as Gaza, South Sudan, Sudan, Mali, and Haiti facing imminent risks of famine without urgent humanitarian action.

WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain described the situation as a “red alert,” urging increased funding and access to deliver life-saving aid. “We know where hunger is rising, and we know who is at risk. Without funding and access, we cannot save lives,” she said.

FAO Director-General QU Dongyu emphasized the need to support farmers and food producers even in conflict zones. “Protecting people’s farms and animals… is not just urgent, it is essential,” he said.

While countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Lebanon have shown improvements, Nigeria remains a top concern as humanitarian needs surge and insecurity continues to threaten both lives and livelihoods.

Stay connected with AGC NewsNet for the latest news from Africa.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria