Abuja: The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, has highlighted the nation’s escalating crisis of malnutrition and food insecurity, which threatens the well-being of citizens, the economy’s resilience, and community stability. Abass made these remarks at the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee for the National Assembly on Nutrition and Food Security at the House of Representatives in Abuja.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Speaker, represented by Deputy Speaker Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized that these challenges deeply impact national development, particularly affecting health, education, and productivity. He expressed concern that inadequate nutrition during critical growth stages hinders physical and cognitive development, necessitating legislative action to address malnutrition and food security issues.
The Speaker noted that the upcoming National Summit will serve as an essential platform to raise awareness, pool resources, and set actionable goals for future
initiatives. Abass assured the House’s full support to the committee, urging collaboration with State Houses of Assembly in alignment with the National Legislative Network.
Mr. Abass expressed his commitment to the cause, stating, ‘It is with immense pride and a profound sense of duty that I join you today to witness the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee for the National Summit on Nutrition and Food Security. This marks a historic moment for the National Assembly, as we unite to address the critical issues of malnutrition and food security through legislative action.’
The Speaker highlighted the severity of the crisis, noting that Nigeria faces one of the highest malnutrition rates in sub-Saharan Africa. Malnutrition affects children, adolescents, and adults, requiring immediate and sustainable solutions. It has devastating effects on children, impacting their growth, academic achievement, and future earning potential. For adults, malnutrition diminishes workforce productivity and overall healt
h, undermining Nigeria’s global economic competitiveness.
Mr. Abass stressed the urgency of the National Summit, tasking the organizing committee with coordinating efforts across various sectors. The committee is expected to create a collaborative platform for legislators, experts, and community leaders to address nutrition and food security challenges, aiming to formulate long-term solutions.
Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Mr. Chike Okafor, expressed optimism that the summit would address Nigeria’s pressing health and well-being issues. He emphasized the committee’s role in fostering partnerships and ensuring the summit’s success, complementing efforts by the Executive arm of government.
Mr. Okafor noted that recent natural disasters, such as floods in states like Adamawa, Maiduguri, and Jigawa, have exacerbated food supply disruptions and access to nutrition. The summit offers a critical opportunity to assess and develop comprehensive strategies and policies from a legisl
ative standpoint to safeguard citizens’ well-being, particularly vulnerable children.