In recent days, Nigeria has witnessed a series of tragic events that highlight the urgent need for the government to take decisive action against hunger and its devastating consequences. The stampedes during food palliative distributions in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives, serve as an ugly reminder of the desperation faced by many Nigerians.

With inflation rates soaring to a staggering 34.6%, the plight of our citizens is becoming increasingly dreadful, and it is imperative that the government prioritizes addressing this humanitarian crisis. The recent deaths of children and adults alike during food distribution events are not isolated incidents; they are symptomatic of a larger systemic failure to adequately address food insecurity in Nigeria. While the government boasts about an increase in foreign reserves, this financial growth does not translate into tangible benefits for the millions suffering from hunger and poverty. The disconnect between economic indicators and the lived realities of ordinary Nigerians raises serious questions about the government's priorities and its commitment to serving its citizens.

The heartbreaking stampedes we have witnessed are a direct result of government inaction and neglect. As people gather in multitudes for limited resources, the desperation for food becomes intense, leading to chaos and tragedy – in a country popularly referred to as the ‘the giant of Africa’. This is not merely a failure of logistics by those who have decided to feed hungry Nigerians on behalf of the government; it is a failure to recognize the urgent needs of the population. The government must understand that hunger is not just a statistic—it is a matter of life and death for countless individuals and families.

In response to these tragedies, various state governments have promised to implement measures aimed at preventing further occurrences during palliative distributions. While it is essential to ensure safety at such events, we must caution against measures that could inadvertently hinder the efforts of individuals, organizations, and religious institutions that are stepping up to assist the vulnerable. These groups are often providing critical support where the government has fallen short, and their efforts should be facilitated rather than obstructed.

It is crucial for the government to strike a balance between ensuring safety and allowing charitable initiatives to flourish. Imposing excessive fees or bureaucratic hurdles on those wishing to distribute aid can deter potential benefactors from helping those in need. Instead of creating barriers, the government should streamline processes to make it easier for individuals and organizations to assist the poor.

In many developed countries, community-driven initiatives thrive without unnecessary formalities or paperwork, allowing for effective distribution of aid without the risk of tragic outcomes. To address the root causes of hunger and prevent further tragedies, it is recommended that: Absolute review of subsidy removal may be considered. There is no harm in trying a method if its primary goal is envisioned for development. However, if the objectives of such implementation results in death and malnourishment of citizens, review or total restoration of subsidy is a good option.

The government must support local farmers through training, access to credit, and infrastructure development to increase food production and reduce reliance on imports. The fund allocated to agriculture which should ensure food security in the 2025 budget reflects inadequate action. Engaging in food security initiatives, including agricultural support, nutrition programs, and direct assistance to vulnerable populations will help alleviate hunger in the long term and reduce dependence on sporadic palliative distributions.

Establishing robust social safety nets can provide ongoing support to those in need. This includes monthly conditional cash transfers, food vouchers, and other forms of assistance that can help families meet their basic needs without resorting to desperate measures.

The government should launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about available resources and assistance programs. Many individuals may not be aware of the support available to them, if any, leading to unnecessary suffering and misuse by the authorities in possession.

The government should create an enabling environment for private sector participation in addressing hunger and food insecurity. This includes tax incentives for businesses that contribute to food distribution efforts or engage in corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty.

Developing clear emergency response protocols for food distribution events can help prevent chaos during large gatherings. This includes crowd control measures, designated waiting areas, and trained personnel to manage distributions safely.

In conclusion, the recent tragedies surrounding food palliative distributions in Nigeria are a wake-up call for our leaders. It is time for the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens by addressing hunger as an urgent national crisis. The lives lost in these tragic incidents should serve as a catalyst for meaningful change— one that ensures no Nigerian has to suffer or die from hunger again.

The people of Nigeria deserve better; they deserve a government that acts decisively and compassionately in their time of need. The government should work together towards a future where hunger is eradicated, and every citizen has access to the basic necessities of life. The future is now, however; all it takes is judicious utilization of resources already allocated to them.