By Milcah Tanimu

In a concerted effort to address the critical issues of malnutrition and hunger in Nigeria, the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has called upon religious and traditional leaders to play a central role in the nation’s nutrition agenda.

At a high-level dialogue on nutrition held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Mrs. Zouera Youssoufou, Managing Director/CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of faith-based groups in fostering human capital development through improved nutrition. She highlighted the multifaceted nature of nutrition, emphasizing its importance for physical health, cognitive development, and overall well-being.

Mrs. Youssoufou painted a stark picture of the malnutrition crisis in Nigeria, particularly its impact on children, who suffer from stunted growth, cognitive impairments, and increased vulnerability to diseases. She stressed the urgent need for collaborative action across all sectors of society to address this pressing issue.

Recognizing the influential reach of faith leaders, Mrs. Youssoufou underscored their potential to inspire individuals to prioritize good nutrition and advocate for policies supporting food security. She proposed leveraging their grassroots networks and moral authority to promote health and wellness, including initiatives on nutritious diets and breastfeeding.

Moreover, Mrs. Youssoufou highlighted the role of faith leaders as advocates for policy changes to address systemic barriers to nutrition. By mobilizing support for nutrition-sensitive programs and investment in healthcare services, they can contribute to improving health outcomes nationwide.

The dialogue, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other key stakeholders, emphasized the importance of unity across religious divides in combating malnutrition. Vice President Shettima praised the indispensable role of faith and traditional leaders, affirming their influence in driving progress within their communities.

In alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to prioritizing nutrition, the gathering reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to producing high-quality, nourishing food. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, highlighted the negative impact of malnutrition on human capital development and emphasized the need for accelerated interventions.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, echoed the call to action, urging religious and traditional leaders to leverage their networks to support government efforts in combating hunger and malnutrition.

The pledge of commitment from the Sultan of Sokoto and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria further underscored the importance of collective action in addressing the malnutrition challenge.

In conclusion, the event signaled a united front in the fight against malnutrition, with faith leaders poised to play a central role in driving progress and fostering a healthier, more prosperous Nigeria.