Nigeria’s federal government, state governors and private sector organizations have pledged more than 65 billion naira ($65 billion naira) to a new National Community Food Bank Programme aimed at tackling child malnutrition and food insecurity.
The initiative, launched at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, targets vulnerable households, particularly children under age 6, and seeks to reduce malnutrition and stunting among under-5 children nationwide.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu described child malnutrition as a pressing national priority, warning that millions of children lack consistent access to adequate nutrition.
“Each day of inaction affects their health, growth, potential and future,” she said. “Addressing this challenge is urgent and essential to securing our nation’s future.”
She said the program is designed to deliver nutritious food to vulnerable children, strengthen community-based nutrition systems and support affected families. She added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Oluremi Tinubu announced a personal donation of 500 million naira and called on Nigerians to support the effort.
Government, private sector pledge support
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate said malnutrition remains one of Nigeria’s most serious public health challenges, contributing to under-5 mortality and limiting children’s development.
The federal government has committed 17 billion naira through the Social Action Fund to support community-based nutrition interventions, he said.
The Dangote Foundation pledged 20 billion naira in-kind support over five years, while the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited committed 10 billion naira over the same period.
The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation also donated 500 million naira.
States, agencies back rollout
State governors, under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, pledged financial support and collaboration.
Forum chairman and Kwara state governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the initiative comes at a critical time as many households struggle with rising food costs.
The program will be implemented across all 774 local government areas through primary health care centers, according to Muyi Aina of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency.
A representative of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria pledged grassroots support, while the Bank of Agriculture said additional funding had been secured from partners.
The program is expected to be rolled out across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
