In 2025, Nigeria spent approximately N7.65 trillion on importing food and beverages, yet the situation regarding hunger and malnutrition in the country continues to deteriorate. Experts in nutrition and economics express serious concerns over the quality, affordability, and accessibility of food items, emphasizing that merely increasing imports does not equate to better food security for Nigerians. The interviews conducted by PUNCH Healthwise reveal that financial constraints, coupled with high unemployment rates, leave many citizens unable to purchase food, regardless of its availability.

Additionally, the experts pointed to various structural and economic challenges that exacerbate food insecurity in Nigeria. These include high costs associated with food production and processing, inadequate logistics, steep transportation costs, and the depreciation of the exchange rate. Such factors contribute to elevated food prices, creating a significant gap between food imports and the actual accessibility of food for the population. Despite the greater volume of imported food, millions remain unable to afford it due to insufficient purchasing power.

The Food and Agriculture Organization has reported alarming statistics, indicating that approximately 27.2 million Nigerians face severe hunger and malnutrition issues. This situation poses a question of governance and economic strategy for the country, as rising food import bills juxtapose a growing crisis of food insecurity. Policymakers and experts are called upon to address the root causes of these economic challenges while formulating sustainable solutions to ensure food security for all Nigerians.