A report by PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited (PwC) has projected that approximately 33.1 million Nigerians could face food insecurity by 2025 due to rising inflation, economic challenges, and ongoing violence in key agricultural regions.
The report, titled “2025 Nigerian Budget and Economic Outlook,” highlights that the combination of high food prices, persistent hardship, and conflicts in northern Nigeria—where much of the country’s food is produced—has already driven 25.1 million Nigerians into acute food insecurity in 2024.
According to PwC, the situation could worsen as violence continues to disrupt farming activities, reduce agricultural output, and create supply chain issues, further driving up food prices and leaving millions unable to afford basic sustenance.
Government Measures to Tackle the Crisis
In an effort to address these challenges, the Nigerian government has increased its focus on security and agricultural reforms. The report notes that security spending has risen from 12% of the national budget in 2024 to 16% in 2025. This increase aims to address violence in agricultural zones and safeguard farming activities.
Additionally, the government has implemented agricultural reforms designed to boost local production, improve supply chains, and mitigate the impact of food price inflation.
PwC emphasizes that tackling the root causes of food insecurity—such as inflation, insecurity, and economic hardship—remains critical. Experts suggest that diversifying food sources, adopting modern agricultural practices, and creating an environment conducive to private sector investments in agriculture are essential for long-term solutions.
Poverty Levels Set to Rise
The report also warns of an increase in poverty, with 13 million more Nigerians expected to fall below the national poverty line by 2025 due to rising inflation and the soaring cost of living.
PwC notes that, without significant policy changes to stabilize the economy and curb inflation, both food insecurity and poverty levels could escalate further, deepening the crisis for millions of Nigerians.
Key Insights from the PwC Report:
• An estimated 33.1 million Nigerians could face food insecurity by 2025.
• Rising food prices, violence, and economic hardships are key contributors.
• Security spending has increased to 16% of the 2025 budget to address violence in food-producing regions.
• Agricultural reforms aim to improve food production and stabilize supply chains.
• Without interventions, 13 million additional Nigerians may fall below the poverty line by 2025.
The report underscores the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s inflationary pressures and security challenges to prevent further deterioration in the nation’s food security and economic stability.
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