UNICEF representative Urges Nigerian States to Prioritize Child nutrition
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Abuja, Nigeria – 2025/09/08 01:18:14 WAT – UNICEF Nigeria Representative Wafaa Saeed has issued a strong call to action for increased investment in child nutrition across Nigerian states, following recent assessments in Plateau and Bauchi. The plea comes as alarming rates of malnutrition threaten the futures of thousands of children, demanding immediate and sustained intervention.
Child malnutrition remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, hindering socio-economic growth and perpetuating cycles of poverty. Plateau and Bauchi states, while demonstrating commitment, face considerable gaps in funding and resource allocation to effectively address the crisis. Saeed’s visit aimed to galvanize support and accelerate progress towards ensuring every child has access to adequate nutrition.
Plateau State Receives Nutrition Supplies, Urged to Release Funds
During a meeting with Plateau State Deputy Governor Mrs. Josephine Piyo and members of the State Executive Council, Saeed lauded the state’s initial investment in the Child Nutrition Fund. UNICEF delivered over 5,300 cartons of nutrition supplements, sufficient to support 15,000 children. Though, with nearly 50% of children under five experiencing stunting, Saeed emphasized the urgent need for the state to release pledged funds and prioritize locally sourced, nutritious food options. Investing in local food solutions is crucial for sustainable impact,
Saeed stated.
bauchi State Commits N300 Million,UNICEF to Match
In Bauchi State,Governor senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to bolster healthcare and education. Saeed expressed admiration for community-led initiatives, including Mama2Mama
groups and bicycle-borne health messengers, recognizing their vital role in reaching vulnerable populations. These grassroots efforts are already yielding positive results in improving child well-being.
Saeed’s visit included a sobering visit to a nutrition facility, where she witnessed the devastating consequences of severe acute malnutrition firsthand. Holding their tiny hands and seeing the pain in their eyes was a stark reminder that behind every statistic is a child whose future risks slipping away,
she shared, underscoring the human cost of inaction.
Responding to the critical situation, the Bauchi State Government has released ₦300 million to the Child Nutrition Fund. UNICEF will match this contribution,effectively doubling the available resources for life-saving nutrition interventions. This partnership will significantly expand the reach of programs designed to combat malnutrition and improve child health outcomes.
Key Data: Nutrition Funding & Impact
| State | Initial Funding (Naira) | UNICEF Match (Naira) | Children Supported (Estimate) | Stunting Rate (Under 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plateau | Unspecified | N/A | 15,000 (Supplements Delivered) | ~49% |
| Bauchi | 300,000,000 | 300,000,000 | To be determined | Data unavailable |
Did You Know?
Stunting, a form of malnutrition, can have irreversible effects on a child’s physical and cognitive development, impacting their future potential.
Pro tip:
supporting local farmers and food systems is a sustainable way to improve nutrition and strengthen communities.
Call to Action: Unified Effort Needed
Saeed’s central message is a call for immediate and collaborative action. She believes the progress demonstrated in Plateau and Bauchi states proves what can be achieved when leaders, communities, and partners work together for the benefit of children. Saeed urged all states to prioritize nutrition funding, invest in local food solutions, and expand triumphant community-driven programs. If we act with urgency and unity, we can give every child in Nigeria the chance not just to survive, but to truly thrive,
she concluded.
What steps can your community take to support child nutrition initiatives? How can state governments better prioritize funding for these critical programs?
Background: Child Malnutrition in Nigeria
Nigeria faces a significant burden of malnutrition, with millions of children affected by stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies. factors contributing to this crisis include poverty, food insecurity, inadequate access to healthcare, and poor sanitation. Addressing child malnutrition is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),especially those related to health,education,and poverty reduction. UNICEF has been a long-standing partner in Nigeria’s efforts to improve child nutrition, providing technical assistance, financial support, and advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is stunting and why is it a concern? Stunting is a form of malnutrition characterized by impaired growth and development. It can have long-lasting consequences on a child’s physical and cognitive abilities.
- How is UNICEF supporting child nutrition in Nigeria? UNICEF provides technical assistance, financial support, and advocacy to improve child nutrition programs in Nigeria.
- What role do local communities play in addressing malnutrition? Local communities are crucial for identifying and reaching vulnerable children, promoting healthy feeding practices, and monitoring nutrition outcomes.
- What is the importance of locally sourced food in nutrition programs? Locally sourced food can improve the nutritional value of programs, support local farmers, and enhance the sustainability of interventions.
- How can individuals contribute to combating child malnutrition? Individuals can support organizations working on child nutrition, advocate for increased funding, and promote healthy eating habits within their communities.
Share this critically important story to raise awareness about the urgent need to prioritize child nutrition in Nigeria! Let’s work together to ensure every child has the chance to reach their full potential. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on UNICEF’s work in Nigeria.
