By Jibrin Hussaini Kundum, Bauchi
The Bauchi State Government has launched the 2024-2028 State Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition, aimed at combating malnutrition and improving food security in the state.
According to the State’s Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Council of Nutrition, Alhaji Muhammad Auwal Jatau said the initiative aligns with the federal government’s plans to create awareness among Nigerians on the importance of nutrition.
He observed that Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammad’s administration has invested heavily in health, agriculture, and education to improve exclusive breastfeeding, food security, and nutrition among target communities, particularly women and children.
Speaking earlier, The Executive Chairman of the State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Rilwanu Muhammad noted that malnutrition remains a significant challenge in the state, with 54.2% of children under five stunted. Saying that the project has been implemented in ten local government areas of the state.
Isaac Ishiya Abdu from Care International commended the state government’s efforts in working closely with developmental partners to achieve set objectives.
He highlighted that food security, poverty reduction, WASH, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as school feeding programs, are top priorities for the Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition.
The program was designed by the Bauchi State Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination in conjunction with CASCADE, Care International, and USAID.