The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has disclosed that no fewer than 400,000 children across communities in Adamawa require nutritional treatment.
Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office in Bauchi, made this known in Yola during a two-day workshop on Legislative Action and Commitment to Nutrition, organised by the Adamawa Planning Commission with UNICEF’s support.
She revealed that nearly 50 per cent of children in the state suffer from chronic malnutrition, while also emphasising the importance of exclusive breastfeeding.
Rafique noted that UNICEF had provided nutrition supplements to Adamawa and urged collective efforts to tackle the malnutrition crisis.
Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Mr Bathiya Wesley, affirmed the assembly’s willingness to drive legislative action and commitment towards nutrition-related policy and funding aimed at improving children’s welfare in the state.
Represented by the Assembly’s Majority Leader, Kate Mamuno, Wesley described the programme as timely and essential.
“We in the assembly will ensure that these policies are considered so that our children benefit from these nutrition programmes,” he said.
“Therefore, we will ensure these policies are backed by legislation, and we are ready to do so for the betterment of Adamawa children.”
Philomena Irene, UNICEF Nutrition Specialist from the Bauchi Field Office, explained that the event was designed to facilitate discussions on strengthening multi-sectoral strategies for nutrition investment.
She added that the initiative would also enhance collaboration among the legislature, government agencies, development partners, and civil society groups.
Dr Mary Padinga, Chairman of the Adamawa Planning Commission, thanked UNICEF for its support to the state.
According to her, the efforts are intentional to ensure the development of sound policies with legislative support in the fight against malnutrition.
Padinga expressed confidence that the state assembly would provide the necessary legal framework for the initiative.
(NAN)