Helping Nigerians grow: Food security and nutrition impacts of safety nets interventions in Nigeria
Document Type
Working Paper
Publication Date
12-2025
Abstract
A rigorous randomized controlled trial in Nigeria shows that integrated safety nets produce sustained improvements in nutrition and food security for poor households relative to a basic safety nets program, with effects lasting three years. Stunting rates among young children fall by 18% only when all three critical features are present: (i) targeting families during early childhood; (ii) substantial grant on top of a regular safety net support; and (iii) behavior change training. Scaling up these proven interventions is urgent to address Nigeria’s high burden of stunting and food insecurity and unlock future human capital.
Recommended Citation
Shrestha, Maheshwor, Oyebola Okunogbe, Naira Kalra, Ayodele Fashogbon, Thomas Bossuroy, Robin Audy, and Kehinde Ajayi. 2025. "Helping Nigerians grow: Food security and nutrition impacts of safety nets interventions in Nigeria," World Bank Group Policy and Technical Note no. 26-07. Washington, DC: International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/The World Bank.
Language
English