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| FG paused prayer plan after public backlash. |
A leaked memo dated June 11 directed all ministry directors, desk officers and staff to join weekly spiritual gatherings titled “Divine Intervention for Protection and National Development” . No reasons were given for the sudden postponement “until further notice.”
Many Nigerians slammed the move on social media as out of touch with real needs. Under President Bola Tinubu, food inflation hit over 21% in April 2025 – down from 40.5% in April 2024 after a CPI rebasing – but still straining households .
Today, about 33 million Nigerians face acute food insecurity in the June–August lean season . Climate shocks, insecurity and high prices drive the crisis. WFP warns the figure could rise further without more aid .
Economic experts say targeted support beats spiritual rallies. “Food banks, cash transfers and farm inputs will curb hunger,” notes economist Dr. Chike Obi. His think-tank report urges policy over prayers.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris announced in July 2024 that planned hunger protests were unnecessary after relief measures . Yet actual aid remains limited.
The National Social Investment Programme has reached 5 million households with cash aid. Analysts say scaling this to 15 million could shield more families from hunger .
In Maiduguri’s displacement camps, mothers queue for grain rations. “We pray every day,” says Aisha, a camp resident. “But we need food on time.” Camp manager Ibrahim Musa calls for faster deliveries and better security.
Professor Nkechi Okafor of UNILAG stresses integrated action. She urges the FedMin to combine faith events with food drives. “Prayer can comfort, but policy fills stomachs,” she says.
Citizens and faith groups are calling on the government to partner with NGOs for mobile clinics and soup kitchens. Civil society also demands full publication of ministry circulars to boost transparency.
As Nigeria braces for another lean season, ministers face a choice: lean on prayer or roll out concrete relief. Many say only swift policy moves will end the pangs of hunger facing millions today.