Nigeria Loses Over $1.5bn Annually to Malnutrition, FG Declares

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared the country's malnutrition crisis a national emergency, citing an annual loss of over $1.5 billion. In commemoration of World Humanitarian Day, the Bauchi State Government donated $5 million to assist residents in dire need.

The Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju, emphasized the importance of addressing the malnutrition crisis, which undermines human capital and national development. The Nutrition 774 Initiative was introduced to provide a unified response to the crisis, with a focus on improving nutritional outcomes across all 774 Local Government Areas.

The initiative aims to strengthen governance structures, ensure accountability, and guarantee sustainability. The Bauchi State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hajiya Hajara Wanka, disbursed cheques to beneficiaries in honor of World Humanitarian Day, highlighting the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State also emphasized the importance of prioritizing nutrition and preventive healthcare to achieve a healthy population. O.