By Muhammad Jamil Abubakar
The Gombe State Government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has launched a renewed effort to combat child malnutrition in the state, citing alarming findings from the 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS).
The initiative was highlighted during a two-day capacity-building workshop on advocacy for improved nutrition, organized by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Salihu Baba Alkali, stressed the urgent need for collective action to address the worsening nutritional status of children in the state.
According to the 2024 NDHS and MICS data, Gombe State continues to record high rates of child malnutrition, stunting, wasting, micronutrient deficiencies, and poverty. Alkali warned that without swift intervention, the situation could deteriorate significantly in the coming years.
“The statistics are not good, and if nothing is done, the situation will become more complicated. That’s why we’re collaborating with UNICEF and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions,” the commissioner stated.
He emphasized that the Ministry is working closely with NGOs, donor agencies, and development partners to mobilize resources and technical support to improve child nutrition. The Ministry, he added, plays a pivotal role in advising the state government based on socioeconomic indicators.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya was commended for his proactive stance on the issue, with Alkali revealing that the 2025 budget includes increased allocations for nutrition-related programs. He added that future budgets would reflect further commitment to combating malnutrition.
Recognizing the local nature of the crisis, the government is engaging all 11 local government chairmen to take responsibility for improving nutrition in their jurisdictions. The chairmen have reportedly pledged their commitment to enhancing the health and nutritional status of women and children in their communities.
The workshop brought together stakeholders, local government officials, donor agencies, and development partners to assess the current situation and develop a coordinated response to the malnutrition crisis.
