Everyday heroes making difference in fight against malnutrition
Everyday heroes making difference in fight against malnutrition
By Abujah Racheal, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
Malnutrition casts a long shadow across Nigeria. Every hour 100 children under five die from malnutrition-related causes in Nigeria, according to UNICEF. This staggering statistic means Nigeria loses about 2,400 children daily.
The Global Hunger Index highlights a disturbing trend. It says the proportion of malnourished children rose from 9.3 per cent to 15.9 per cent in 2023, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
In 2022, a UNICEF research revealed that six of the 17 million food-insecure Nigerians were children under five in Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Sokoto, Katsina, and Zamfara states.
Forecasts indicate that the number of children suffering from acute malnutrition in these states rose from 1.74 million in 2022 to two million in 2023.
Nearly 4.4 million children aged 0 to 59 months were estimated to suffer from acute malnutrition between May 2023 and April 2024 in northwest and northeast Nigeria.
This includes 1.04 million cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and 3.37 million cases of Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM).
The Federal Government acknowledges that 24.7 million Nigerians across 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory face severe food and nutrition crises.
This figure could rise to 31.5 million by August 2024 if immediate action is not taken.
The Cadre Harmonise CH-Phase 3, Food and Nutrition Insecurity Analysis for Nigeria report, warns of a significant increase in internally displaced persons (IDPs) if current trends continue.
The report was produced support from the Control in the Sahel (CILSS) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).
The consequence would be more children suffering from malnutrition. In response, Northern Nigerian governors have pledged to tackle challenge.
The Nigerian government has approved 11 billion dollars to enhance primary healthcare nationwide.
During a policy dialogue organised by the Athena Centre in Abuja, governors from Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, and Zamfara vowed to collaborate with the Federal Government and development partners.
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, called for increased funding for infrastructure, treatment sites, and therapeutic foods.
Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, suggested sustainable agricultural practices for long-term food security.
In spite of strategies, the situation remains dire. Many children are at high risk of mortality due to severe nutrient deficiencies, which weaken their immune systems and leave them vulnerable to infections and diseases.
This highlights the urgent need for robust healthcare infrastructure and support systems to address malnutrition and improve survival rates for children in Nigeria.
Amidst these challenges, ordinary Nigerians are rising to the occasion. From mothers ensuring their children receive proper nourishment to local farmers growing nutrient-rich crops, everyday heroes are making a significant impact.
Experts say the key to avoiding malnutrition is proper breastfeeding.
At the Apo mechanic village, in the Federal Capital Territory, farmers such as Mrs Faith Phillip, AKA, mama Victor, knows the importance of breastfeeding.
After losing her first child to malnutrition, she was determined to do everything right for her newborn.
Philip attended a local clinic run by a dedicated midwife who provided breastfeeding guidance and support.
“I learned the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and how it can save lives of infants,” she said.
Her determination reflects the strength and resilience of many Nigerian mothers.
In the rural village of Lambata, Gurara Local Council, Niger, Mrs Halima Usman is embracing sustainable practices.
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Usman said that she set up a farm at the back of her house, growing cabbage, spinach, onions, moringa, maize, and sweet potatoes bio-fortified with Vitamin A.
These vegetables are full of nutrients our children need for healthy growth,” she explained.
By cultivating these crops, she is not only improving her livelihood but also providing essential vitamins to her family.
Her efforts exemplify how local initiatives can drive significant change.
Community health workers such as Ms Nneka Madu in Kwali village, Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger, are on the front lines of the fight against malnutrition.
Madu said she educates families about healthy eating habits, hygiene practices and the importance of diversifying their diets.
“Empowering communities with knowledge is key,” she told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Her dedication empowers communities to make informed choices about their health, showing how education and grassroots efforts can combat malnutrition.
Experts highlighted the devastating impact of malnutrition.
Children suffering from malnutrition face stunted growth, weakened immune systems, and impaired cognitive development. These effects can ripple throughout their lives, limiting their opportunities and hindering Nigeria’s future potential.
Mrs Ladi Bako-Aiyegbus said that the burden of food and nutrition insecurity has kept the rate of malnutrition high, driven by complex factors.
“Ensuring access to nutritious and safe diets should be a priority across every state.
“The Federal Government, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, has developed Sectoral Nutrition Action Plans, Strategies, and Guidelines to address the implementation of nutrition programs and interventions.
“I urge states to focus on multisectoral approaches to ensure sustainable access to nutritious, safe, and affordable diets,” Bako-Aiyegbus said.
Dr Mbang Kooffreh-Ada advocates for increased engagement and private sector participation, as well as collaboration among civil society organisations to achieve inclusive and equitable nutrition policies and practices.
Kooffreh-Ada is the Chairman of Civil Society ScalingUp Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) Board of Trustees.
“Malnutrition remains a significant public health concern,” she said, pledging the coalition’s renewed commitment to advancing nutrition in Nigeria through increased advocacy and investment.
In spite of improved efforts from the government and aid organisations it a common view that no single entity can resolve malnutrition alone.
Effective practices have been established but require further expansion. Increased investment and the implementation of rights-based policies are crucial.
Addressing issues such as education, social norms and culture is also essential to tackle the problem comprehensively.
The Nigeria’s government must ensure adequate funding and improved policies to protect children from malnutrition.
Multi-sector partnerships and community participation can effectively implement government policies and empower Nigerians to address malnutrition and its impact on children.
Creating specialised programmes targeting the most vulnerable communities is another approach.
These interventions should focus on behavioural change, micronutrient and deworming initiatives, and complementary and therapeutic feeding programs.
Innovative solutions need to be scaled up to battle child malnutrition.
States should invest in ending this condition affecting too many children.
Emerging innovative solutions include mobile health clinics that bring vital nutrition education and screenings to remote communities and community gardens that foster local food production and promote healthier eating habits.
These are just a few examples of the many Nigerians making a difference in the fight against malnutrition.
Their stories testify to the power of human compassion, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of a nation determined to nourish its children and build a healthier future.
Experts urge the federal government to prioritise investments in early childhood nutrition programmes, support for small-scale agriculture, fortification of staple foods, and public awareness campaigns.
By working together, Nigerians can overcome malnutrition and create a brighter future for all.
