by Niyi Jacobs
The current inflationary trend in Nigeria is having a devastating impact on hunger, a concerned expert has warned. Speaking to BusinessNG, Segun Ogunlowo emphasized that the government needs to listen to the concerns of ordinary Nigerians and implement policies that directly address the rising cost of living.
“The economic environment is still very tense, and the current inflationary trend is exacerbating hunger among Nigerians,” said [Name], an economic analyst. “Measures need to be put in place to make government policies more bearable for the people, especially in terms of food affordability and accessibility.”
The situation is indeed dire. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is grappling with an inflation rate that has consistently risen over the past year, hitting a record high of 21.91% in February 2023. The impact on food prices has been particularly severe, with the cost of basic staples like rice, beans, and bread increasing by as much as 50% in some cases.
For ordinary Nigerians, the effects are palpable. “I can barely afford to feed my family anymore,” said [Name], a Lagos resident. “The prices of foodstuffs are skyrocketing every day. The government needs to do something urgent to address this issue.”
Aina, a mother of three, echoed similar sentiments. “We are struggling to make ends meet. My husband’s salary can no longer feed our family. We are forced to skip meals sometimes. It’s heartbreaking.”
The government’s response to the crisis has been criticized as inadequate. Despite repeated promises to address the issue, little concrete action has been taken. “The government should prioritize the welfare of its citizens,” said [Name], a civil society activist. “It’s unacceptable that people are hungry in a country with so much wealth. We need policies that promote food security and affordability now.”
As the situation continues to deteriorate, experts warn that the consequences will be severe. “If the government doesn’t act fast, we’ll see rising levels of malnutrition,