Vice President Shettima Unveils Nutrition Improvement Plan

Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled a nutrition improvement plan in the presence of faith and traditional leaders, urging them to lead the initiative for their respective communities.

Speaking on Tuesday at a high-level dialogue on nutrition at the Presidential Villa, the vice president highlighted that the country's problem was not a lack of food, but of quality.

The event was held under the theme of "Faith Leaders as Catalysts for Enhanced Human Capital Through Nutrition" and organized by the National Council on Nutrition and the World Bank-assisted Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria [ANRiN] Project.

"We must proclaim to the world that our commitment to producing food of unparalleled richness is not rhetoric," he said, adding that "this gathering is a solemn pledge to safeguard our well-being and preserve the legacy of generations yet to come," as per the official statement.

He went on to mention that religious and traditional leaders are important cultural influencers who can help create a Nigeria where people understand each other, live in peace and stay together.

Shettima restated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment on "prioritizing nutrition as an integral component of our quest for food sufficiency," adding that "this is our inspiration to implement quality, cost-effective nutrition services."

Tinubu's vision focuses on various areas, from assisting pregnant and breastfeeding women to looking after the health of adolescent girls and children under five years old. This vision aims to lead Nigeria to a future where every person in the country has access to the nourishment necessary for their well-being and growth, according to the vice president.

However, Shettima noted that the government can't work alone, as it requires the support and guidance of those who majorly influence the communities, hinting at the faith and traditional leaders.

The vice president also thanked federal ministries and partners like the World Bank for supporting the nutrition drive in Nigeria.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Atiku Bagudu also spoke during the event and mentioned how malnutrition and related challenges over the years have negatively impacted Nigerians.

Nigerians are currently going through a tough phase as after Tinubu took over the office on May 29, he announced fuel subsidy removal, causing increased fuel and food prices across the country.