The second day of a high-level advocacy visit to Sokoto State by a delegation of humanitarian stakeholders has spotlighted the urgent need for coordinated action, accurate data, and increased funding to combat severe acute malnutrition (SAM), particularly in Gwadabawa Local Government Area.
Led by Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nantewa Yilwatda, the delegation also included the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot; UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Judith Leveillee; ACF Country Director, Thierno Samba Diallo; and MSF Nigeria Country Representative, Ahmed.
During the visit to an Action Against Hunger (ACF)-supported facility in Gwadabawa, the delegation engaged in strategic discussions on the deepening malnutrition crisis. They called for immediate intervention to avert further deterioration.
Prof. Yilwatda described the visit as “an eye-opener,” underscoring the urgent need for reliable data to shape effective interventions.
“I want to thank UNICEF, ACF and MSF for the amazing work they are doing. However, we need accurate data to inform our budget and interventions. Regional blocs such as the North-West Governors’ Forum are crucial to tackling malnutrition. I will work with UNICEF and other partners to coordinate efforts and ensure a comprehensive plan is developed,” she said.
The EU Ambassador, H.E. Mignot, stressed the importance of collaboration and pledged the EU’s unwavering support.
“This visit has been a stark reminder of the severity of the crisis, not just in Sokoto but across the North. We must coordinate efforts and step up advocacy. The EU remains committed to supporting this life-saving cause,” he stated.
Ms. Leveillee of UNICEF raised alarm over the escalating situation.
“The number of SAM cases is doubling even before the peak period. Time is of the essence. Every life counts, and we can save them if we act now,” she warned.
Key action points from the visit include the compilation of a comprehensive report by UNICEF and partners detailing the current situation and gaps in nutrition support. Additionally, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs is to convene a high-level meeting with governors and stakeholders to push for a declaration of a nutrition emergency and increase budgetary allocations.
ACF representatives highlighted the pressing need for more stabilization centres. Currently, the nearest facility outside the ACF-run centre is over 40 kilometres away in Sokoto metropolis, a distance many malnourished children and their caregivers cannot travel.
The visit concluded with a strong call for:
- Increased funding to support nutrition programmes and avert a looming stockout of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF);
- Better coordination among federal, state, and regional actors; and
- Enhanced advocacy to drive political will and public awareness.
The delegation’s findings and recommendations will serve as a roadmap for developing a comprehensive, multi-sectoral plan to end the malnutrition crisis threatening thousands of children in Sokoto State and beyond.
