He continued: “We are gathered here because none of us can fulfill the goals of guaranteeing the survival of our people in isolation. Whether by expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare, or offering skills training and job opportunities, it is clear that each one of us has the power to influence policy and decisions at various levels.
“Our success relies on recognizing the socio-economic threats that have pulled us down the development index and, more importantly, on our resolve to walk the talk.”
Underscoring how critical investing in food security is, VP Shettima expressed delight at the efforts and reforms made so far by state governors to boost agriculture.
“However, we must not overlook the state of nutrition in our nation, which has led to stunting and other health challenges. This is a crisis that demands our unified attention and action. The future of this nation hinges on the health and well-being of our children,” he added.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare of Nigeria, Prof. Ali Pate, announced the inauguration of a taskforce to address lingering polio cases in five states, stressing the need for monthly reports on immunization and primary healthcare revitalization efforts, further highlighting the government’s commitment to eradicating polio in Nigeria.
Members of the committee are: Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare of Nigeria, DG Primary HealthCare Agency, NEC Secretariat, representatives of UNICEF, WHO, SA to the president of NEC and the representatives of Aliko Dangote Foundation, DG Nigeria Governors Forum.
Pate emphasized the critical role of nutrition in the country’s human capital development during recent discussions on flooding and food systems.
He announced the establishment of a food and nutrition security taskforce at both federal and state levels to combat acute malnutrition and ensure coordinated governance.
He said the council highlighted the importance of incorporating nutrition-related budget items in the 2025 fiscal plan, aiming for a multi-sectoral approach to improve child health and cognitive development.
He added that the government is distributing 1.3 million doses of micronutrient supplements to pregnant women, addressing the vital first thousand days of child development.
In collaboration with state governments and development partners, Pate said there are efforts to procure therapeutic foods and enhance maternal health.
