Assessing the nexus between food insecurity and economic shocks: Evidence from agricultural households in north-east Nigeria

Food insecurity remains a significant global problem, particularly in low-income countries, where households are consistently exposed to economic shocks. These economic disruptions reduce the productivity of farm families, exacerbating their food insecurity. This research analysed the nexus between economic shocks and food insecurity of agricultural households in northeastern Nigeria. Notably, conflict has severely disrupted food systems in northeastern Nigeria. The study utilised the 2019 Nigeria Living Standards Survey (NLSS). Food insecurity and the influence of economic shocks on it were measured using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) and an Ordered Probit regression, respectively. The food insecurity status of the households revealed that 78% of the families were suffering from various degrees of food insecurity. The regression analysis revealed that economic stressors have a positive influence on food insecurity . The study shows heightened vulnerability of agricultural households to food poverty amid economic disruptions. This study recommends that the government and other stakeholders in the food system implement targeted initiatives to strengthen household resilience against economic stressors, thereby reducing food insecurity among agricultural households in Northeast Nigeria.