Benue Killings Threaten Nigeria’s Food Security
Written by Blessing Ajibuwa on June 18, 2025
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has warned that ongoing killings in Benue State, known as Nigeria’s food basket, threaten the country’s food security. Over 200 people were killed in Yelwata community, Benue State, in one of the deadliest attacks in recent years. CAN condemned the killings and demanded urgent action by the Federal Government to forestall further tragedies.
Key Highlights
– *Food Security at Risk*: Benue State is a major agricultural hub, producing crops like yams, rice, maize, cassava, and soybeans. The continued violence and displacement of farmers pose a significant threat to national food security.
– *Displacement and Abandonment*: Over 6,500 residents have been displaced, farmlands abandoned, and food barns destroyed in Benue State’s Guma, Agatu, Kwande, and Otukpo Local Government Areas.
– *CAN’s Demand*: CAN has urged the Federal Government to compensate victims of the recent mass killings and take decisive action to address the security challenges in the region.
Implications
The attacks on farmers in Benue State could lead to a food crisis in Nigeria, exacerbating hunger and driving food inflation. Experts warn that the situation will worsen the country’s food crisis and derail its plan to broaden the economy through agriculture. The Federal Government must take swift action to address the security challenges and ensure the safety of farmers and their communities.
