By Abdullahi Adamu
Addressing the issue of food inflation and its impact on Nigerian students requires comprehensive and multi-faceted solutions.
The government, educational institutions, and non-profit organisations must work together to implement measures that alleviate the burden on students and promote their well-being.
Firstly, the government should prioritise policies that curb food inflation, including strategies to reduce transportation costs, enhance local agricultural production, and strengthen supply chain management. Such measures can help stabilise food prices and make essential items more affordable for students.
The detrimental impact of food inflation on Nigerian students extends beyond financial constraints and compromised nutrition. The inability to access adequate and nutritious meals takes a toll on students’ mental and physical well-being, affecting their academic performance.
Dr Fatima Adeyemi, a nutrition expert, says the consequences: “Poor nutrition affects cognitive function, memory, and concentration. Students who do not receive sufficient nutrients are at a higher risk of experiencing fatigue, reduced productivity, and even mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.”
The situation has made many Nigerians poorer than they were in 2023, with 63 per cent of the population (133 million) said to be suffering from multidimensional poverty last year.
“I can’t even afford to eat properly again as food prices continue to surge. Once I can feed my children twice daily, I am satisfied,” said Hajiya Maryamu, a stylist at Kuje Modern Market. “People are trying to reduce costs to survive the difficult moment. As part of the cost measures, ladies now wear wigs instead of making their hair. This is taking jobs away from us. So, how can I afford a balanced diet for my children or myself?
Increases in prices of oil and fat, bread and cereals, fish, potatoes, yam and other tubers, fruits, meat, vegetables, milk, cheese and eggs caused the rise in food inflation year-on-year.
Abdullahi Adamu wrote via nasabooyoyo@gmail.com.