Shettima to Expedite Nigeria's Food and Nutrition Bill

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced on October 6, 2026, that Nigeria will fast-track the development of a National Food and Nutrition Bill to enhance accountability and protect nutrition financing. This initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to strengthen the Nutrition 774 Initiative and foster collaboration among federal, state, and local governments to combat malnutrition.

During the Nigeria-Ethiopia Nutrition Leadership Exchange Forum in Addis Ababa, Shettima outlined targets from the National Policy on Food and Nutrition 2026–2035, aiming to reduce the stunting rate to 32% by 2029, 28% by 2032, and 25% by 2035. He highlighted the establishment of nutrition committees in 32 State Houses of Assembly and over 450 local governments, emphasizing the need for legislative support.

Additionally, Nigeria's $26 million commitment to the Child Nutrition Fund has unlocked $52 million in matching support, with 21 states contributing $6.3 million since 2023 for malnutrition supplies. The proposed Presidential Nutrition Investment Fund aims to mobilize further resources for nutrition initiatives.