Yola: The Civil Society-Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) has called on the Adamawa Government to allocate N9 billion as counterpart funding to combat child malnutrition in the region. Mr. Sodangi Chindo, the Chairman of the Steering Committee of CS-SUNN, issued this appeal through a press statement titled ‘Investing in Nutrition Now’, emphasizing the potential benefits of such an investment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Chindo highlighted the opportunity for the state to leverage counterpart funding, which would effectively double the impact of its investment. By doing so, the state can address the malnutrition issue with a budget of N9 billion instead of N18 billion. He underscored the severe public health challenge posed by malnutrition in Adamawa, noting stunting rates at 48.6 percent, wasting at seven percent, and underweight at 32.5 percent.
Chindo explained that the current malnutrition levels threaten not only child survival but also have significant implications for learning outcomes, workforce productivity, and the long-term economic growth of the state. He referenced global evidence demonstrating that timely investment in maternal and child nutrition, particularly within the first 1,000 days, can yield substantial returns in terms of health and productivity.
In collaboration with UNICEF, CS-SUNN is executing a project aimed at enhancing the quality of nutrition services in Adamawa. This initiative aligns with the Adamawa State Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition (ASMPFAN). Chindo stressed the need for full operationalization of ASMPFAN, enhanced monitoring mechanisms, and better coordination at the Local Government Area level.
Further recommendations from Chindo included the necessity for sustainable domestic financing, prompt fund releases, and efficient use of nutrition budgets across various sectors. He also advocated for extending paid maternity leave from three to six months to support exclusive breastfeeding and improve child survival rates.
Chindo urged media outlets to focus on evidence-based reporting on nutrition issues and to hold leaders accountable for budgetary commitments and outcomes. He called upon the private sector to invest in food fortification, develop affordable nutritious foods, and embrace breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies. Additionally, he encouraged civil society organizations to maintain advocacy efforts, mobilize communities, and align their interventions with state nutrition priorities.