The United Nations is sounding the alarm: Northern Nigeria is on the brink of an unprecedented famine.

The program explained that approximately 35 million people could face severe food insecurity during the lean season of 2026. This season precedes the harvest between May and September. It is the highest number ever recorded in Nigeria and the largest in Africa.

In Borno State, the epicenter of the ongoing insurgency since 2009, the program anticipates that around 15,000 people will face conditions classified as “catastrophic” or near famine.

The jihadist attacks, ongoing for 16 years, have killed more than 40,000 people and displaced over two million. The situation has worsened since the beginning of this year. In addition to the Boko Haram insurgency, other areas are experiencing attacks by armed gangs known locally as “bandits.” These groups carry out attacks and kidnappings for ransom, exacerbating the food security crisis.