Nigeria Enhances Nutrition Collaboration at Ethiopia Exchange

The Nigerian government, alongside sub-national entities, is intensifying grassroots collaboration to enhance nutrition outcomes across communities and households. This initiative aims to implement nutrition policies through coordinated actions in health, education, agriculture, water, sanitation, and social protection.

The discussions took place during the Nigeria–Ethiopia Nutrition Leadership Exchange in Addis Ababa, with Vice President Kashim Shettima leading the Nigerian delegation. Governors, including Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and Alex Otti of Abia State, emphasized the importance of focusing on vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant women.

They advocated for learning from Ethiopia's successful strategies to combat malnutrition. Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State highlighted the impact of insecurity on nutrition challenges, while Umar Namadi of Jigawa State noted the need for homegrown initiatives.

Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, stated that nutrition is crucial for human capital development and requires a comprehensive approach for effective implementation.