UN Names Nigeria, Mali Among 16 Global Hunger Crisis Hotspots

The United Nations has listed Nigeria and Mali among 16 countries facing severe hunger crises in its latest joint report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP). The report, titled Hunger Hotspots: FAO-WFP Early Warnings on Acute Food Insecurity, identifies regions where immediate humanitarian action is needed to prevent famine, widespread malnutrition, and food-related deaths. The analysis covers the period between November 2025 and April 2026, emphasizing that millions across these nations are on the brink of starvation.

According to the UN agencies, ongoing conflicts, climate shocks, economic instability, and population displacement are the main drivers of worsening food insecurity in Nigeria and other affected countries. In Nigeria’s case, the report highlights insecurity in the North-East and North-West regions as major factors disrupting agriculture, trade, and humanitarian access. It notes that persistent attacks by armed groups, coupled with rising food prices and limited rainfall, have left over 26 million Nigerians at risk of acute hunger by mid-2026 if urgent interventions are not implemented.

Mali faces a similar situation, with the report citing escalating violence, political instability, and restricted humanitarian access as key factors. Other countries identified in the report include Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, and Gaza, all experiencing worsening food shortages. The FAO and WFP have urged governments, international donors, and partners to scale up support for agricultural recovery, food aid, and conflict resolution to prevent the crisis from deepening.

The UN warned that without immediate global attention, the hunger hotspots could experience famine-like conditions, especially in parts of Africa and the Middle East. It also stressed the need for stronger early warning systems and sustainable food production measures to address future crises. As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and insecurity, the question remains whether national and international responses will arrive in time to avert catastrophe. What are your thoughts on this alarming report by the UN? Share your views in the comments section below.

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