FG, States Adopt Ethiopia’s Nutrition Model, to Introduce Scheme in 774 LGAs

The federal government and Nigeria's 36 states pledged stronger collaboration at the grassroots to improve child nutrition, as part of translating national policies into tangible community and household benefits. In a speech at the Nigeria–Ethiopia Nutrition Leadership Exchange in Addis Ababa, Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing Nigeria, highlighted Ethiopia's experience as a valuable guide for Nigeria's Nutrition 774 Initiative.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke stressed the importance of focusing on children under five and pregnant women, noting that while Nigeria has made progress, there is room for improvement. Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti emphasized that nutrition extends beyond food security, requiring coordinated efforts across healthcare, education, agriculture, climate action and poverty reduction.

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal acknowledged that insecurity has worsened nutrition challenges in the state, traditionally known for substantial food production. Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi highlighted Ethiopia's Seqota Declaration as a useful reference for Nigeria's initiative, stressing the importance of implementing interventions from the local level to households.

Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, stressed that nutrition is crucial for human capital development and requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. Prof. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, stated that nutrition interventions should begin from pregnancy and continue through a child's early years, warning that missing this period could set children up for failure in life.

Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, connected improved nutrition to water security, agricultural production, sanitation and healthy living, emphasizing the importance of reliable water supply for food production and broader nutrition outcomes.