Food security is the backbone of thriving communities, yet Nigeria faces critical challenges that threaten its stability. Between October and December 2024, an estimated 25.1 million Nigerians are expected to experience food insecurity, even during the harvest season. Alarmingly, 3.8 million people in northeastern states are already affected, which is projected to rise to 5 million.
The situation is worsening, with populations experiencing Emergency (Phase 4) levels of food insecurity set to increase from 1 million during the 2024 lean season to 1.8 million in 2025—a staggering 80% surge.
The Stark Reality of Nigeria’s Food Security
In 2020, research showed that 21.4% of Nigerian families face acute food scarcity, while 50% of the population lives below the poverty line of $1.90 per day. Despite small-scale farmers contributing 90% of Nigeria’s agricultural output, many still struggle to meet their basic needs. The challenges they face—fragmented land holdings, over-reliance on rain-fed agriculture, and limited access to inputs—have kept food security out of reach for many.
In 2023, Nigeria ranked 107th out of 113 countries on the Global Food Security Index (GFSI) and 109th out of 125 countries on the Global Hunger Index (GHI), with a score of 28.3, signaling a critical hunger crisis.
Smallholder Farmers: The Key to Food Security
Smallholder farmers are the lifeblood of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, contributing 90% of the nation’s agricultural output. However, despite their immense contribution, these farmers face daunting barriers. With fragmented land holdings, unreliable rainfall, and limited access to modern farming tools and inputs, many farmers are unable to produce enough to sustain their families or communities.
Heabron’s Role in Empowering Farmers
At Heabron, we’re working to change the narrative by empowering smallholder farmers with the tools, resources, and market access they need to succeed. Through our asset-based finance model, we provide access to farming inputs, training, and market opportunities. Our mission is to strengthen local food systems, boost productivity, and build resilience in rural communities across Nigeria.
We believe in the power of local farmers to contribute to food security, but they need the right support to thrive. By equipping farmers with the right tools and resources, we are fostering a new era of sustainable agriculture that can withstand the challenges of climate change, economic instability, and population growth.
The Path Forward: Collective Action for Food Security
The rise in food insecurity in Nigeria requires urgent action. To address this, we must empower farmers with the means to increase productivity and sustainability. By investing in sustainable agriculture, supporting local farmers, and creating more resilient food systems, we can reduce the dependency on industrial-scale agriculture and build a food system that’s resilient to disruptions.
Together, we can foster a future where every Nigerian has access to nutritious, locally grown food, and where local farmers play a key role in securing the nation’s food future.
Join Us in Building a Resilient Nigeria
Together, we can champion a future where every Nigerian has access to nutritious food. Let’s empower farmers, strengthen food systems, and contribute to a more resilient Nigeria.
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