An ambitious plan to enhance nutrition nationwide was revealed by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who called upon faith and traditional leaders to lead the charge within their communities.
During a high-level dialogue on nutrition held at the Presidential Villa, the Vice President emphasized that the future preparedness of Nigeria relies not only on the quantity of food available but also on the nutritional value it provides.
The dialogue, themed “Faith Leaders as Catalysts for Enhanced Human Capital Through Nutrition,” was organized by the National Council on Nutrition and the World Bank-supported Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project.
Asserting the commitment to producing nutrient-rich food, Shettima stated, “This gathering signifies our solemn vow to safeguard our well-being and uphold the legacy for future generations.”
Addressing the religious and traditional leaders present, the Vice President hailed them as “key cultural influencers” and the “gatekeepers to a Nigeria characterized by harmony, unity, and social coherence.”
He reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to prioritizing nutrition in Nigeria’s food security strategy, highlighting the importance of implementing high-quality, cost-effective nutrition services.
Shettima mentioned initiatives like the ANRiN program as pivotal in expanding nutrition interventions nationwide.
However, he emphasized that the government cannot achieve success alone, stating, “We rely on the support and counsel of influential figures in our communities to drive this transformation.”
The Vice President urged faith and traditional leaders to promote proper nutrition practices within their spheres by incorporating nutrition education into religious and cultural gatherings.