In the city of Umuahia, mothers cradle their infants as health workers stress a simple but powerful truth: food is medicine. In a state where many still rely on unbranded oils and unbalanced diets, nutrition experts and government officials are advancing solutions that could reshape lives.
At a recent town hall meeting, experts emphasised that pregnant women, nursing mothers and children must consume fortified vegetable oil and balanced diets to ensure healthy growth and development.
The forum, organised by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, cautioned against the dangers of consuming unbranded bulk oils, which are deficient in essential micronutrients such as vitamin A.
Advocates highlighted how fortified oils can help reduce stunted growth and low cognitive development in children. Their collective message was clear: good nutrition is the foundation for health, vitality and productivity.
The campaign in Abia State draws upon similar models in states like Lagos and Kano, which have led to improved vitamin A intake among children under five.
Regulations by Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NAFDAC), which mandate that commercial oils must meet safety and nutrition standards before being launched into the market.
This meticulous vetting, experts say, makes fortified oils a practical and accessible alternative for families.
Nutrition-focused interventions are gaining momentum in Abia. The state government has inaugurated the Abia State Council on Nutrition to drive the implementation of the Federal Government’s Nutrition initiative across the state.
These initiatives serve as systemic solutions to tackle malnutrition early. Creches provide mothers with safe spaces where infants can receive adequate nutrition and care, while the nutrition department ensures policies and programmes are continuously evaluated and improved.
These structures represent more than political promises; they demonstrate a deliberate effort to create an enabling environment for healthier families and future generations.
Community engagement is another solution gaining traction. Advocates’ push for religious and traditional leaders to join the campaign reflects a recognition of Nigeria’s social dynamics, where community leaders often wield more influence.
In some local government areas of the state, faith-based organisations have already begun integrating nutrition awareness into women’s fellowship programmes and premarital counselling sessions.
Such grassroots involvement ensures that the message of proper nutrition moves beyond medical circles and into the cultural fabric of society. By embedding nutritional knowledge in familiar spaces, behavioural change becomes more achievable and sustainable.
Ultimately, the story from Abia State illustrates how nutrition challenges, though daunting, can be addressed through collaborative, diverse solutions. From fortified oils approved by NAFDAC to state support, from community engagement to expert-led education, these strategies paint a future of possibility.
While malnutrition continues to undermine the health of mothers and children, the ongoing efforts in Abia show that progress is achievable when knowledge, policy and community willpower align. It is a reminder that good nutrition is a fundamental right, and with such deliberate actions, healthier futures for Nigerian families are within reach.
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