Bukola Afeni
The Federal Government has launched the National Guideline for Women and Girls Nutrition in Nigeria.
The Guideline was launched by the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye.
The Minister called on stakeholders in the nutrition sector to collaborate and end malnutrition in the country.
” We need to work together to end malnutrition. We want everyone to support efforts that will promote nutrition in the country”, she said.
In the same vein, Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) also called on the Federal Government to empower women nutritionally so as to address malnutrition crisis in the country.
CS-SUNN Executive Secretary Sunday Okoronkwo made the disclosure at the launch of the National Guideline for Women and Girls Nutrition in Nigeria.
He disclosed that women play a huge role in addressing Nigeria’s malnutrition crisis.
” With concerted efforts from government agencies and active participation from women themselves, the nation can strive towards a healthier, more prosperous future for all”, he said.
While highlighting the prevalence of malnutrition among both the impoverished and affluent, Okoronkwo pointed out the alarming phenomenon of “double burden” malnutrition.
“It encompasses obesity, over-nutrition, and traditional malnutrition. The importance of education, guidance, and proper nutrition practices in combating the multifaceted challenge of malnutrition is very essential”, he said.
The Executive Secretary said the guideline will lay the groundwork for sustainable economic empowerment among women.
“By providing women and girls with the necessary tools, knowledge, and opportunities, they can establish successful business but also contribute to reducing malnutrition and promoting optimal nutrition within their households”, he said.
The Country Director of FHI, Victor Ogbodo who was represented by Toyin Adewale Gabriel said the nutrition guideline for women and girls will improve nutrition landscape in the country.
She further added that the guideline will serve as a beacon of hope for the provision of MMS and other Nutrition supplement for women and girls in the country.
“We want all stakeholders to support the implementation of the guidelines, as it is critical to the advancement of women and girls nutrition in the country”, she said.
The Speaker FCT Children Parliament , Rahama Waziri urged all Nigerians to become nutrition Ambasadors.
“It is critical for all stakeholders in the health sector to prioritize nutrition. The journey of nutrition is important to national development and should not be neglected.
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