The Federal Government has said improving nutrition is central to human capital development and poverty reduction under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the current administration.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja at the opening of the 2025 National Micronutrient Conference.
The theme of the conference is “Strengthening Resilient Systems for Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies in Nigeria.”
Salako noted that micronutrient deficiencies—often described as “hidden hunger”—remain a major barrier to Nigeria’s development, particularly among children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups.
“Poor nutrition contributes to stunted growth, weak immunity, impaired cognitive development, and reduced productivity, thereby perpetuating a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment,” he said.
He cited findings from the 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, which showed stunting at 40 percent, wasting at 8 percent, and underweight prevalence at 27 percent among children aged six to 59 months.
“These statistics underscore the urgency of addressing malnutrition as a fundamental challenge to human capital development and national prosperity,” the minister said.
Salako disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing nutrition as part of efforts to achieve tangible improvements in Nigerians’ lives and secure a prosperous future for coming generations.
He said the re-inauguration of the National Advisory Committee on Micronutrient Deficiency and Control, along with the revival of the National Micronutrient Conference, reflects the government’s renewed commitment to tackling malnutrition.
“The biennial conference will serve as a platform to review progress in micronutrient interventions, identify implementation gaps, mobilise resources, and strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration,” he said.
The minister also highlighted federal government interventions, including multiple micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women, Vitamin A supplementation for children, food fortification, salt iodisation, and maternal, infant, and young child nutrition programmes.
He emphasized the need for stronger food systems, expanded coverage at sub-national levels, and sustained collaboration across sectors to eliminate nutritional deficiencies.
“No single sector can end malnutrition alone. It requires collective action to build resilient nutrition systems that support healthy, productive lives,” Salako said.
