Federal Government and state governors have renewed efforts to take the Nutrition 774 initiative directly to communities to improve the health of millions of Nigerians.
The plan is aimed at ensuring children, pregnant women and vulnerable families receive better nutrition services at the grassroots.
Speaking during the Nigeria–Ethiopia Nutrition Leadership Exchange in Addis Ababa, leaders said Ethiopia’s success offers practical lessons Nigeria can adopt.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke said more attention must be given to children under five and pregnant women because they are the most vulnerable. Abia State Governor Alex Otti said Nigeria should not be ashamed to learn from countries that have achieved better nutrition outcomes. Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal said insecurity has made it harder for many farming communities to produce enough food but insisted the state must keep pushing for solutions. Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi said the Nutrition 774 programme must reach every local government, ward, community and household to make a real difference.
Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said nutrition is essential for building a healthier and more productive population and requires all sectors to work together.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa stressed that proper nutrition from pregnancy through a child’s early years is vital for lifelong development.
The leaders expressed confidence that stronger cooperation between the Federal Government, states and local communities would help reduce malnutrition and give Nigerian children a healthier future.