In response to the alarming increase in cases of severe acute malnutrition among children in Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, joined the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria on a joint on-the-spot assessment visit to Sokoto State.
The delegation was warmly received by the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu.
During the visit, the Governor expressed appreciation for the federal government’s and European Union’s commitment to addressing the nutrition crisis affecting vulnerable children in the state.
According to current national estimates, over 3.5 million children under the age of five are at risk of severe acute malnutrition across Nigeria, making it a critical public health concern.
The visit to Sokoto was aimed at evaluating the situation firsthand and initiating a coordinated, multi-sectoral response.
Prof. Nentawe noted the urgency of the crisis and reiterated the federal government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with both local and international partners to provide timely and sustainable solutions.
He emphasized that the Ministry, in partnership with the European Union and the Sokoto State Government, is working towards the implementation of a robust, life-saving nutrition response plan.Key components of the planned intervention include:
1. Scaling up community-based management of acute malnutrition (CMAM)
2. Deployment of ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) to treatment centres
3. Capacity building for health and nutrition personnel
4. Enhanced awareness campaigns on infant and young child feeding (IYCF)
5. Improved early detection and referral systems at the grassroots level
The Honourable Minister stressed that every Nigerian child deserves the opportunity to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
He urged all stakeholders to act swiftly and decisively to reverse the current trend and ensure no child is left behind.
The assessment mission marks a critical step in galvanizing national and international action against child malnutrition in Nigeria.
Plateau News