UN says 4.4 million Nigerians face acute hunger as insecurity persists

 

UN says 4.4 million Nigerians face acute hunger as insecurity persists

The United Nations has said about 4.4 million people in north-eastern Nigeria may face acute hunger because of the attacks by the Boko Haram militant group that have forced farmers from their land, the UN has said.

Despite efforts by the military to ensure security, Boko Haram and herdsmen attacks have persisted, preventing farmers from going to farms. Recently, soldiers escorted pupils to schools to ward of kidnappers’ attacks.

Farmers have been targeted in the insurgency and the army has been carrying out operations against militants.

The area has suffered decades of violence and the UN says this could lead to food insecurity.

The loss of livelihoods because of the coronavirus pandemic has also been cited.

The authorities in Nigeria should collaborate with NGOs to prevent the food shortage, the UN’s humanitarian chief in Nigeria Edward Kallon said.