Major N65 Billion Initiative Launched to Tackle Child Malnutrition in Nigeria
The Federal Government, state governors, and prominent private sector organizations have collectively committed over N65 billion to the National Community Food Bank Programme, a significant intervention designed to address child malnutrition and food insecurity throughout Nigeria. This programme was officially launched on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with a primary focus on vulnerable households, especially children under the age of six, aiming to reduce malnutrition and stunting that affects a large portion of under-five children nationwide.
First Lady Warns of Malnutrition Crisis
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that child malnutrition is a critical national priority, cautioning that millions of children lack consistent access to the nutrition necessary for healthy growth and development. She stated, "Each day of inaction affects their health, growth, potential and future. Addressing this challenge is urgent and essential to securing our nation’s future." She explained that the Community Food Bank Programme was developed as a deliberate and sustainable response to deliver nutritious food to vulnerable children, strengthen community-based nutrition systems, and restore hope to affected families.
The First Lady noted that this initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and is being implemented in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and the Bank of Agriculture. "Our goal is to build a strong and effective food bank system in Nigeria that is supported through a well-structured Trust Fund, governed transparently and capable of reaching communities and households across the country," she added. She also announced a personal donation of N500 million and urged Nigerians to support the effort.
Government and Private Sector Contributions
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, highlighted that malnutrition remains one of Nigeria's most serious public health challenges, significantly contributing to under-five mortality and limiting children's growth and potential. "Behind these statistics are real families and communities whose wellbeing depends on our collective action. The National Community Food Bank Programme represents a practical and compassionate response," he said. He disclosed that the Federal Government has committed N17 billion through the Social Action Fund to support community-based nutrition interventions.
According to Pate, the programme will be implemented through a decentralised, community-based system using primary healthcare platforms, enabling local sourcing of nutritious food while stimulating grassroots economies. He called on state governments to complement federal efforts, stressing that improving nutrition outcomes requires coordinated, multi-sectoral collaboration.
Major private sector stakeholders also announced substantial contributions:
- The Dangote Foundation, represented by Managing Director Zouera Youssoufou, pledged N20 billion in-kind support over five years, urging the organised private sector to join the initiative.
- The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, represented by Sofia Mbakwe, committed N10 billion over five years, describing the initiative as a reflection of purposeful leadership.
- The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, represented by Chijioke James, donated N500 million, emphasizing that no society can prosper while hunger persists.
State Governors and Implementation Details
State governors, under the Nigerian Governors' Forum, pledged financial support and collaboration. Chairman of the forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, noted that the initiative comes at a critical time as many households struggle with rising food costs and limited access to nutritious meals. "This is not only a health issue; it is a national issue," he said, pointing out that more than one-third of children under five are affected by stunting. He assured that governors would provide counterpart funding and work closely with the Federal Government for effective implementation.
Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Muyi Aina, explained that the programme will be implemented across all 774 local government areas through primary healthcare centres. Beneficiaries, including children aged 0-6 years and malnourished pregnant or breastfeeding women, will be identified through health screenings and supported with vouchers redeemable at designated food banks, adopting a community-based approach for efficient and localised delivery.
A representative of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Hamisu Mohammed, pledged grassroots support, describing the programme as a timely response to rising food insecurity and cost of living challenges. Similarly, the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, Ayodeji Sotinrin, disclosed that "Friends of the First Lady" had contributed $500,000 to support the initiative.
Expected Impact and Rollout
The National Community Food Bank Programme is expected to be rolled out across the six geopolitical zones, with stakeholders expressing optimism that it will significantly reduce hunger, improve child health outcomes, and enhance the wellbeing of millions of Nigerians. This comprehensive effort underscores a unified commitment to combating malnutrition and ensuring a healthier future for the nation's children.
