Northern governors pledge to combat malnutrition in region

Nigerian Northern governors have pledged to tackle malnutrition in the region.

This comes as the Nigerian government has approved $11billion to bolster primary health care across the country.

At a policy dialogue organised by the Athena Centre in Abuja, governors of Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, and Zamfara states, pledged to partner with the Federal Government and development partners to combat the rising scourge of malnutrition.

In his opening remarks at the event, Osita Chidoka, the founder and Chancellor of the Athena Centre, underscored the need for stakeholders to unite to save the lives of young Nigerians facing acute malnutrition. He emphasised the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address this pressing issue.

He highlighted the alarming rate of malnutrition in the region and urgent need for action against it.

Chidoka, therefore, 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”, he said.

In his intervention, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, revealed that the Federal Government has approved $11 billion to be disbursed among the states of the federation.

Prof. Paste who announced various interventions by the Bola Tinubu administration including establishing several treatment sites equipped with locally sourced, ready-to-use therapeutic foods for acute malnutrition cases in the northeast, highlighted the gaps in the northwest and discussed mobilising support to fill these gaps, including sourcing millions of doses of micronutrient supplements for distribution across the states.

The emphasized the critical need to enhance primary health care systems across the country to effectively combat malnutrition. He noted that the funds would be utilized to improve infrastructure, equip health care centers, and provide necessary resources to treat and prevent malnutrition.

His words: “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 centers 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”.

On his part, the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, outlined plans for long-term food production and fortification, emphasising sustainable agricultural practices.

Represented by the Director of Nutrition and Food Safety in the Ministry, Fatima Sugra, the Minister said “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”.

Also, the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, highlighted the importance of agricultural development as a strategy to combat malnutrition and hunger in the region.

Governor Bago emphasized the need for improved agricultural practices to ensure the production of high-quality, nutritious food.

He pointed out 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 mechanization and tractors than the rest of Nigeria combined, showcasing the region’s significant progress in agricultural development”, he said.

On his part,Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara called for a renewed focus on the North West and North Central regions, urging development partners to avoid regional biases with a sustained focus on the North East.

Governor Umar Dikko Radda of Katsina emphasised the need for immediate action, pledging counterpart funding for interventions in his State.

Likewise Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, who reiterated the state’s immediate readiness to partner with stakeholders to assist malnourished citizens.