The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has revealed that nearly 57% of children under five in Kano are experiencing stunting as a result of malnutrition.
Oluniyi Oyedokun, a UNICEF Nutrition Specialist, revealed this data during a meeting in Kaduna focused on scaling up the distribution of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to improve pregnancy outcomes in Kano.
The initiative, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is currently active in only five states, including Kano.
Oyedokun spoke on the need for a comprehensive approach to prevent anemia in pregnancy, saying that it is important to create a supportive environment for MMS acceptance and implementation.
He also urged the Kano State Government to engage in the project due to its potential benefits for the population.
Recent data indicate that 60.4% of women in the Northwest region suffer from anemia.
Oyedokun expressed hope that Kano would become the first state in Nigeria to establish a dedicated child nutrition fund.
He commended Governor Abba Yusuf for approving the release of funds necessary for the MMS program.
Dr. Labaran Yusuf, the Commissioner for Health, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and partners for their swift intervention, particularly in addressing primary healthcare challenges for children and pregnant women.
The acting Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Shehu Sani, noted that the meeting would aid in tackling anemia and malnutrition issues in the state.
