From today, August 1 to August 10, Nigeria will face nationwide hunger protests that reflect deeply rooted socioeconomic challenges. These protests are more than just a response to an immediate crisis—they are a manifestation of systemic failures that have exacerbated food insecurity, poverty, governmental ineffectiveness, and economic hardships for years.
Nigeria’s recent economic hardship is exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu during his inauguration speech in May last year. This unprecedented action ushered in a cycle of economic downturns that has resulted in job losses, skyrocketing inflation rates, and decreased purchasing power. As a consequence, many Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities, including food.
The present administration’s convulated and inconsistent agricultural policies hindered the sector’s growth. Problems such as insufficient investment, corruption, lack of access to affordable fertilizers and credit for farmers have collectively contributed to the current food crisis which leaves many citizens destitute and angry.
Nigeria boasts immense agricultural potential thanks to its vast arable land, diverse agro-ecological zones, and substantial labor force. Historically, agriculture has been a major part of Nigeria’s economy, employing millions of people. Despite these advantages, the nation has long struggled with food security, exacerbated by conflicts, economic instability, and poor governance. In recent years, the situation has deteriorated, leading to increased rates of malnutrition, hunger, poverty, and social unrest. The hunger protests signal a breaking point, reflecting a widespread dissatisfaction with the governmental response to these mounting issues.
As we already know, the spate of armed banditry and kidnapping in the North-Western region coupled with insurgency in the North-East of the country, have forced many farmers to abandon their lands, leading to disrupted agricultural activities. Additionally, communal clashes in various parts of the country have further exacerbated food insecurity through displacing communities and preventing farming.
Furthermore, Nigeria is highly vulnerable to climate change effects, such as erratic rainfall, desertification, and flooding. These environmental changes have significantly affected agricultural productivity, resulting in lower crop yields and a reduced food supply.
Without proportional growth in agricultural productivity, the demand for food has outstripped supply, leading to increased food prices and widespread hunger.
Right now, Nigerians are hungry and angry. And as they file out on the streets today to protest against the present predicaments, citizens must eschew violence which could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria.
Without doubt, protests of this scale will disrupt economic activities, including business closures and productivity losses, but it should be tolerated particularly if it’s done peacefully and orderly. I want to believe that the objective of the protests is to draw attention of the political class to the current economic hardships and increase pressure on the national and state governments to take swift and effective action.
Under a democracy, the people have the right to protest and voice out their grievances. Once that’s done it is the responsibility of the government to respond positively and effectively to the demands of the citizens. Ineffectiveness in addressing the root causes of the problems could further erode public trust and lead to political instability.
Addressing the food crisis and preventing future hunger protests requires multi-faceted strategies involving all Nigerians. The government must prioritize policy reforms to support agricultural development. This includes increasing investments, providing subsidies and fertilizers, improving credit access for farmers, and investing in rural infrastructure like roads, irrigation, and storage facilities.
A comprehensive strategy to tackle the rampant insecurity and conflicts is essential for restoring stable agricultural productivity. Military interventions should be complemented by dialogue and community-based conflict resolution mechanisms to create lasting peace.
In addition, investments in climate-resilient agriculture are vital for mitigating climate change impacts. Practices such as sustainable farming, development of drought-resistant crops, and anti-desertification measures must be promoted.
Economic diversification and job creation are key to alleviating poverty. This includes supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, investing in education and skill-building, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring equitable economic growth.
Most significantly, combatting corruption, ensuring transparency, and implementing effective governance structures are very crucial for sustainable development. Establishing strong institutional frameworks, maintaining policy consistency, and creating accountability mechanisms must be prioritized.
To end this crisis effectively it requires coordinated, bold actions from the government at national and sub-national levels, and then all Nigerians.
Nigeria can pave the way towards a future free from the threat of hunger protests, where its citizens live with dignity and food security. This is an urgent call to action.
