Nigeria’s ongoing economic downturn is characterized by inflation, subsidy removal, and escalating food costs, these have intensified livelihood shocks in rural households. Pregnant women remain particularly vulnerable, as negative coping mechanisms such as meal skipping, dietary reduction, and depletion of household assets compromise maternal nutrition. This study examined the relationship between livelihood shocks, coping strategies, and pregnancy nutrition in rural communities of Southern Cross River State. A qualitative research design was adopted. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) with pregnant women and household caregivers and key informant interviews (KIIs) with community leaders, health workers, and local government officials. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure inclusion of those directly affected by the economic crisis. Data were transcribed and analyzed thematically to capture patterns and relationships between shocks, coping strategies, and nutritional outcomes. Findings revealed that food price inflation, job loss, and crop failure were the most prevalent livelihood shocks. Households coped by rationing food, borrowing, and prioritizing children’s meals over maternal needs. These coping strategies were strongly linked to reduced dietary diversity and maternal undernutrition. The study underscores the urgent need for nutrition-sensitive social protection policies and maternal health interventions tailored to the realities of Nigeria’s economic crisis.