FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops and Shortages 06/02 - NIGERIA (19 June)
First rains in the south in late February/early March permitted land preparation and planting of the first maize crop. Rains progressed northwards in April and precipitation was generally above average in April and May. Seasonably dry conditions prevail in the extreme north-east. Late rains in much of northern Nigeria have raised fears of likely crop failure and food shortages in the region.
The overall food supply situation is satisfactory. Some population groups, however, remain vulnerable following communal conflicts notably in the states of Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba.