To combat Nigeria’s malnutrition crisis, the federal government, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the World Bank have teamed up to launch a nationwide initiative aimed at helping 11 million children suffering from malnutrition. This effort will primarily target pregnant women, adolescent girls, and children under five across 11 high-risk states.
The partnership was unveiled during the Faith Actors Workshop/Public Sensitization Lecture on Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN) held in Abuja. The event brought together key stakeholders, including faith leaders, healthcare professionals, and government officials, to discuss strategies for improving nutrition.
Archbishop (Dr.) Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, represented by Rev. (Mrs.) Uzoaku Williams, CAN’s Assistant General Secretary, highlighted the significant challenge of malnutrition, with one in three children under five affected. Okoh stressed that poor nutrition leads to various health problems, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, women, and the elderly. He emphasized the need to address societal and cultural norms that hinder proper nutrition.
Okoh noted, “Nutrition is not just about survival; it is essential for human development and societal advancement. Inadequate nutrition brings a host of health challenges, especially for vulnerable populations like children, women, and the elderly.” He added that cultural, societal, and religious norms often shape behaviors that may negatively affect nutrition, and stressed the importance of focusing on the nutrition of pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as young children.
ANRIN’s Project Manager for Social and Behaviour Change (SBC), Mr. Bako Kantiok, explained that the project aims to increase access to quality nutrition services in the 11 states most affected by malnutrition. Key issues include low birth weight, improper feeding, and lack of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. He noted that cultural practices often discourage proper nutrition and that improving hygiene for mothers and children is crucial for better health outcomes.
Prophet Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, CAN’s National Director for National Issues and Social Welfare, outlined the project’s goal to improve nutrition services for pregnant and lactating women, adolescent girls, and children under five. With Nigeria ranked 11th globally for child malnutrition, this partnership is expected to significantly improve nutritional outcomes and contribute to national development. Further details on the project’s progress will be shared in the coming months.
