Gender, Vulnerability, and the Dynamics of Food Insecurity in Nigeria

Lawal, Musediq Olufemi; Adeleke, Gbadebo Fatai; Kazeem, Kolawole Lateef; Kareem, Olatunji Alidu; Olajuwon, Timileyin Gabriel

Management and social perspectives
Volume 5, Numéro 1, Pages 55-79
2026-06-30

Gender, Vulnerability, And The Dynamics Of Food Insecurity In Nigeria

Authors : Lawal Musediq Olufemi . Adeleke Gbadebo Fatai . Kazeem Kolawole Lateef . Kareem Olatunji Alidu . Olajuwon Timileyin Gabriel .

Abstract

This paper explores the dynamics of food insecurity in Nigeria, with a special focus on how gender intersects with vulnerabilities. Using a mixed-methods design, data were collected from purposively selected communities across six states, Benue and Kwara (North-Central), Oyo and Osun (South-West), and Borno and Adamawa (North-East). The research evaluates the magnitude of food insecurity, gender variations in vulnerabilities, and adaptation mechanisms used by households. Findings reveal that rural-dwelling female-headed households are largely constrained in accessing land, credit, and other productive resources, thereby increasing their susceptibility to food insecurity. Moreover, societal norms, patriarchal ideologies, and practices further constrain women in accessing sufficient food for their households. Through the lens of food insecurity intersection with gender, the study contributes to ongoing debates on sustainable development and underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions that align with national and global development agendas.