Nigeria Roundup: Chidimma Adetshina, over 6 million displaced, petrol price surge

Food inflation crisis

Nigeria is grappling with an acute hunger crisis exacerbated by soaring food inflation rates, which reached a staggering 41% in June 2023—the highest mark in almost three decades. A report issued by the National Bureau of Statistics indicates a doubling of households unable to afford adequate food, surging to 62.4% since 2019. Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 12.3% of families have gone without food for an entire day, while 21% are relying on assistance from friends and family. The average cost of a nutritious diet has risen by 30% recently, worsening food insecurity and undernutrition among the nation's children. President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, which involve currency devaluation and subsidy eliminations, have further inflamed food costs, inciting protests nationwide. 

Miss Universe runner-up Chidimma Adetshina to relocate to Nigeria

Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant, is considering relocating back to Nigeria due to a citizenship dispute in South Africa. This dispute arises from allegations surrounding her mother's use of a stolen identity, which has raised safety alarms. Adetshina, who was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria and claimed second position globally, finds herself uncertain about her future in South Africa. With roots in Soweto and a Nigerian father, she aims to resolve her legal challenges while pursuing her law studies and bridging connections between Nigeria and South Africa.  

Investments in genomic research 

Nigeria is bolstering its genomic research capabilities with fresh investments, particularly from DemyHealth—a healthcare technology firm dedicated to precision medicine. This week marked the launch of a 16-channel genetic sequencer and a new DNA sequencing facility in Abuja, complemented by two branches in Lagos. The company also intends to extend its services to underserved communities, aiming to enhance educational and scientific progress in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. 

Over 6 million Nigerians currently displaced

Aliyu Tijani, Nigeria's Federal Commissioner for Refugees, disclosed that more than 6.1 million Nigerians are currently displaced due to natural disasters and security issues. During a Technical Working Group on Migration and Development held in Abuja, he outlined plans for collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to refine the National Migration Policy, aimed at curtailing irregular migration. The review process is inclusive of various thematic groups to ensure a comprehensive address of migration dynamics and national priorities. The government stresses the importance of skill acquisition initiatives to facilitate the resettlement of displaced individuals. 

Petrol price surge forces switch to compressed natural gas 

Nigerians are making a shift towards converting their vehicles to operate on compressed natural gas (CNG), driven by an explosive fivefold increase in petrol prices following the withdrawal of fuel subsidies. CNG is notably cheaper and more environmentally sustainable, priced at around 230 naira ( $0.14) per litre in comparison to petrol. The Nigerian government is proactively endorsing the adoption of CNG to enhance energy security, decrease transportation costs, and minimise carbon emissions, targeting the conversion of 1 million vehicles by 2027, which includes an ambitious aim of 100,000 commercial vehicles by the close of 2024.