Although humanitarian assistance mitigates some of the impacts, it remains insufficient. The Humanitarian Resource Plan aimed to support 2.1 million people, but only 347,525 were reached, leaving a coverage gap of around 70%. Security constraints, including the need for escort operations, limit access to displaced populations and increase costs. Without increased resources and improved access, areas hosting large numbers of displaced people risk remaining in the crisis phase or experiencing a deterioration in conditions.
The 2025 harvest provides seasonal relief in the form of increased stocks and lower prices between October and January. From February onwards, however, FEWS NET anticipates the depletion of reserves and a shift towards stressed (phase 2) conditions in areas unaffected by conflict. Conflict-affected zones will remain in crisis (phase 3). To prevent displacement from fuelling a broader food crisis, it is crucial to secure humanitarian access and increase targeted funding to support the livelihoods of displaced and host households alike.
The food crisis in Niger is an example of how forced displacement and insecurity reinforce each other, gradually eroding livelihoods. Alarming figures on child malnutrition and the inadequate humanitarian response reflect a situation in which the resilience of both host communities and displaced populations is being undermined. While the 2025 harvest may offer some respite, projections indicate a widespread resurgence of food insecurity as early as February, with conflict-affected regions continuing to experience crisis conditions. To address this trend, safe humanitarian access must be ensured, funding must be increased, and targeted support must be provided to the most vulnerable households. Beyond emergency measures, safeguarding livelihoods and bolstering social cohesion is crucial to averting displacement and the perpetuation of a cycle of poverty and hunger. Niger is therefore at a critical turning point, with the future of millions of people depending on swift action.