Nigeria Fortifies Rice to Combat Malnutrition Crisis

Nigeria is addressing its malnutrition crisis by implementing large-scale food fortification, particularly focusing on rice, a staple in many households. Poor nutrition is a significant issue, contributing to nearly half of all child deaths in the country, with UNICEF reporting that malnutrition causes 45 percent of deaths among children under five.

A 2023 Cadre Report indicated that over 35 million children under five are affected by malnutrition, with 12 million stunted, three million wasted, and 23.5 million anemic. The Nigerian government previously mandated the fortification of flour, oil, maize, semolina, and sugar in 2002, but compliance has been low.

Seun Elere, project manager at TechnoServe, emphasized the importance of fortified rice in combating micronutrient deficiencies during a training session for journalists in Ikeja, Lagos. The initiative aims to ensure that fortified rice consumption spreads nationwide, addressing nutritional deficiencies among vulnerable groups.