Abuja: Key food and nutrition stakeholders have urged the government to prioritise sustainable nutrition policies and actions to strengthen Nigeria’s economic productivity and support national growth. They made the call at the 2025 National Nutrition Week, themed ‘Sustainable Nutrition for a Healthier and Productive Nigeria,’ organised by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and NGOs in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr Michael Ojo, Country Director of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to address malnutrition, which hinders productivity and perpetuates poverty. Ojo noted the ongoing efforts in reviewing the National Policy on Food and Nutrition, which will set a clear agenda and priorities for the next 10 years. He stated that the scale of hunger and malnutrition challenges, both acute and chronic, across the country is significant. He expressed hope that the Nutrition Week would reignite efforts to ensure that every Nigerian has equitable access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food, which is crucial for a healthy and productive nation.
Dr Osita Okonkwo, Country Director of Nutrition International, represented by Dr Junaidu Sani, stressed the need for impact-driven collective action to address malnutrition in Nigeria. Sen. Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, highlighted the link between adequate nutrition, a productive workforce, and a resilient economy. He acknowledged the progress made in improving maternal and child health and expanding essential nutrition services but pointed out persistent challenges such as stunting and micronutrient deficiencies.
Bagudu, represented by Dr Sampson Ebimaro, Acting Permanent Secretary in the ministry, emphasised the need to review progress, its impact, and priorities in nutrition-related interventions on the nation’s development agenda. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the resilience of the agricultural system and ensuring a steady supply of nutritious food. Bagudu called on all stakeholders to recognise their collective responsibility in attaining optimal nutritional status for all Nigerians, especially in the face of climate change challenges.
Uju Rochas-Anwukah, Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, stressed the need to prioritise nutrition interventions to strengthen nutrition outcomes in the country. Additionally, Mr Emmanuel Abbatta, Director of the Nutrition Information System at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the importance of offering practical solutions to address malnutrition in the country.