Kwara govt, UNICEF strengthen commitment to child nutrition

The Kwara state government and UNICEF have reinforced their dedication to addressing child malnutrition in Nigeria. With approximately 31 million Nigerians facing food insecurity, the partnership aims to improve the health outcomes of the country's youngest citizens.

UNICEF's Chief of Child Nutrition Development, Nemat Hajeebhoy, emphasized the severity of childhood poverty in Nigeria, with two out of every three children suffering from malnutrition. The promotion of breastfeeding was highlighted as crucial for optimal nutrition, physical growth, and cognitive development.

Local government leaders were urged to maintain detailed records of babies in their jurisdictions to facilitate targeted interventions. The importance of clean water, sanitation, and universal immunization coverage was also stressed.

The collaboration between the international organization, government agencies, and local communities in Kwara sets an example for addressing the widespread malnutrition crisis in Nigeria.