The Federal Government has announced the approval of $11 billion to be disbursed among the states of the federation.
This is a significant move to bolster the nation’s health care infrastructure.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, made this known during the Dialogue on Addressing Malnutrition Surge in Northern Nigeria, organised by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership in Abuja.
Pate emphasised the critical need to enhance primary health care systems across the country to effectively combat malnutrition.
He noted that the funds would be utilised to improve infrastructure, equip health care centers, and provide necessary resources to treat and prevent malnutrition.
“Our children are among the most important assets that this country has,” he said.
The minister while highlighting the urgency of addressing the malnutrition crisis, detailed the government’s comprehensive strategy, which included the activation of the Food and Nutrition Council chaired by the Vice President.
“This multi-sectoral body brings together key ministries such as agriculture, health, and education to tackle the systemic issues contributing to malnutrition.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure food security and improve the health of Nigerians in the long term.
“A significant portion of the approved funds will be directed towards enhancing 1,200 primary health care centers nationwide.
“These centres will be better equipped to provide essential services, including the treatment of acute malnutrition. Additionally, the government has secured a $60 million commitment from UNICEF’s Children Nutrition Fund, which will be used to purchase ready-to-use therapeutic foods and other necessary supplies,” he added.
Pate called on state governors and local authorities to support these efforts by ensuring the effective implementation of programmes and resources at the grassroots level.
He emphasised the importance of a collaborative approach between federal and state governments to address both immediate and long-term challenges related to malnutrition.
“By working together, we can manifest the renewed hope for Nigeria’s future”. he said.
In his welcome address, Chief Osita Chidoka, Counselor from the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership brought to light the alarming statistics and urgent need for action.
Chidoka called for a national awakening to the malnutrition problem, stressing the importance of coordinated efforts between the federal and state governments, as well as international partners.
He questioned the effectiveness of past warnings and measures, urging for immediate and long-term strategies to ensure no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.
“This event is about bringing national consciousness to the issue and finding tangible solutions to make sure our people do not suffer from acute hunger”.
Also, the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago highlighted the importance of agricultural development as a strategy to combat malnutrition and hunger in the region.
Bago emphasised the need for improved agricultural practices to ensure the production of high-quality, nutritious food.
He noted that addressing malnutrition begins with addressing food security, which in turn relies heavily on the agricultural sector.
He stressed the significance of both the quantity and quality of food available to the population, pointing out that balanced nutrition is crucial for overall health.
“My administration has focused on diversifying Niger State’s economy through enhanced agricultural production, the state’s efforts to mechanize farming, is more efficient and capable of meeting local and broader demands.
“Remarkably, Niger State has more mechanisation and tractors than the rest of Nigeria combined, showcasing the region’s significant progress in agricultural development,” he stated.
He also mentioned partnerships with various organisations to improve the nutritional value of crops.
“Collaborations with entities like IITA and World Bank aim to develop and distribute fortified maize and cowpea, which are richer in nutrients. These efforts are intended to create a value chain in nutrition, ensuring that even the most common foods provide essential nutrients to the local population,” he said.
He criticized the current state of food reserves and emphasized the need for a deliberate and coordinated effort to stabilize food prices and ensure food availability.
Bago however advocated for a focus on primary health care and nutrition, suggesting that providing nutritious meals at health centers could be more beneficial than merely distributing medicine.
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mohammad Abubakar, represented by Mrs Fatima Sugra, Director of Nutrition and Food Safety at the ministry, presented key measures and ongoing efforts.
She emphasised the grim statistics of malnutrition exacerbated by persistent violence, early marriages, high childbirth rates, climate change, and inadequate coordination among stakeholders.
“Despite these challenges, the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency and collaborative efforts with state governments and various ministries to tackle the crisis effectively”. She said.
He outlined a comprehensive approach to improve agricultural production and nutrition.
“Short-term measures include distributing improved seed varieties and fertilizers to farmers, promoting homestead gardening, and enhancing livestock production.
Medium-term strategies focus on improved mechanization, irrigation, urban agriculture, and increased financial support for nutrient-dense food production.
“Long-term goals aim to develop cooperative models, establish disease-free zones, and promote biofortification of staple crops to address micronutrient deficiencies”.
She underscored the importance of collaboration and partnerships at all levels of government and with key stakeholders.
The dialogue underscored the government’s resolve to tackle malnutrition through a robust and coordinated effort, reflecting a broader vision of health and prosperity for all Nigerians.