Executive Summary

Despite Abuja this year twice declaring a state of emergency, in as many months, to grapple with simultaneous situations that threaten Nigeria’s stability, the political and security situation remains in flux, the food crisis has worsened, and the recent withdrawal of U.S. assistance has likely exacerbated the deteriorating situation.

In March 2025, the government declared a political state of emergency in Rivers State due to vandalism on vital oil infrastructure. Then, in April 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a national emergency on food security in response to soaring food inflation and rising malnutrition across the country. The combined effect has created severe food shortages in markets, pushed prices beyond what many households can afford, and triggered humanitarian concern as nutritional outcomes worsen, particularly among vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, the cessation of U.S. aid in January has affected the availability of food and healthcare. In the turmoil, attacks in different states have claimed over 100 lives in recent months. 

Images Sourced From: Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Castellano, Spc. Mario Hernandez Lopez