Nutrition council okays measures to combat food insecurity

The National Council on Nutrition (NCN) has approved new measures to combat malnutrition and food insecurity in Nigeria.

This is in line with the present administration’s efforts to improve the nutritional status of Nigerians.

Speaking during a meeting of the NCN at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday, Chairman of the Council, Vice President Kashim Shettima called for active and proactive participation from all involved, including ministries, departments, agencies, development partners, and other stakeholders.

He said, “Our dedication to this council reflects President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to improving the nutritional status of every Nigerian.”

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Among the approved measures is the establishment of a national nutrition dashboard to be hosted by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and which will also be uploaded on the website of the NCN.

The tool aims to provide better oversight and coordination of nutrition-related initiatives across the country.

Referencing the recently created Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit, which operates within the framework of the Presidential Economic Coordination Committee, Shettima said the President Tinubu administration recognised the urgency of the food crises and is addressing its underlying causes with a view to developing more resilient and sustainable food systems in Nigeria.

 Addressing participants at the meeting, Shettima, who commended the efforts of stakeholders, assured development partners and other actors of the federal government’s readiness to work with them.

He said, “We are willing and ready to work with you for the good of the Nigerian nation. Let us forge ahead with optimism and resolve, knowing that together we are making substantial changes in the lives of our people. I extend my gratitude for your steadfast support and diligent efforts.”

 Speaking earlier, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, emphasised the administration’s commitment to prioritising nutrition as a crucial component of national development.

“This initiative provides us an opportunity to step up our collective efforts to improve the country’s food and nutrition security,” Bagudu said.