Insecurity and Food Security in Nigeria: Areas for Legislative Intervention
Working Paper
The intersection of insecurity, food scarcity, and food inflation in Nigeria presents a complex and challenging scenario that significantly impacts the country's agricultural sector and overall food security. In recent years, Nigeria has grappled with various security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and farmer-herder conflicts, which have disrupted agricultural activities, displaced farmers, and hindered access to farmlands. These security threats have not only resulted in the displacement of rural communities but have also led to a decline in agricultural productivity, causing food scarcity and contributing to rising food prices. The combination of insecurity and food scarcity has exacerbated food inflation in Nigeria, making essential food items more expensive and less accessible to vulnerable populations. The disruption of supply chains, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of farmers have disrupted agricultural production and distribution networks, leading to a reduced supply of food in the market. This reduced supply, coupled with increased demand due to population growth, has further fueled food inflation, making it challenging for many Nigerians to afford an adequate and nutritious diet. In Nigeria, insecurity and food insecurity are significant challenges that impact the well-being of the population. The country faces various security threats, including insurgency, banditry, communal conflicts, and criminal activities, which have resulted in displacement, loss of lives, and economic disruptions. In terms of food insecurity, a considerable portion of the population struggles with inadequate access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. Factors such as conflict, climate change, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to food insecurity in Nigeria, leading to malnutrition, hunger, and other related health issues. Addressing these interconnected issues requires comprehensive strategies that address both security and food-related challenges to improve the overall well-being of Nigerians. Considering the impact of insecurity on the economic activities in Nigeria and its impact on the economy of Nigeria, the following recommendations are suggested for consideration: (i) The National Assembly, through the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, may engage and discuss with the security agencies and other relevant stakeholders on adopting new strategies for addressing the insecurity challenges facing the country. (ii) The National Assembly may through its Senate and House Committee on Communication, carry out an investigation and proper oversight of the sim card\National Identification Number (NIN) linkage and why security agencies have not been able to track bandits and kidnappers through their phone contacts.