The high cost of food is leaving some residents going hungry in Maiduguri, Borno State.

RNI reporter Hadiza Hawud spoke to some of the residents.

Abubakar Zannah Musa Ajid said eating three times a day had become a problem in his house because of the high prices of food. “All I can say for now is that this is something that requires prayers.”

Mother of two Fatima Ashemi said she cooked only once or twice a day. Before the price hikes, her husband could afford to provide enough food, allowing her to cook three meals a day.

Breakfast has been cancelled at Bagoi Marte’s home. Although he works with farmers growing food, since the Boko Haram insurgency many of the farmers had fled.

Maiduguri residents urged the government to help them so that they could afford to buy food.

They are concerned that skipping meals could result in fatigue, dizziness or fainting. But, they said, it could also lead to severe health problems, such as bone density loss, decreased immunity and worsening dental health.