Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara says malnutrition is not only a health crisis but also an economic barrier that poses a threat to human capital development.

Mr Lawal spoke at the launch of the Zamfara Council of Nutrition 774 Initiative at the government house in Gusau on Tuesday.

The Nutrition 774 Initiative is a federal government, community-driven, multi-sectoral programme created to enhance nutritional results throughout Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

The State Council on Nutrition is expected to oversee and direct the implementation of sustainable nutrition activities.

Mr Lawal assured that the inauguration of the council would strengthen the foundation by prioritising the health and well-being of Zamfara children.

He said, “We cannot build a secure, resilient, and prosperous Zamfara on a foundation of poor nutrition. An investment in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life is the single most significant investment we can make in this state’s future.

“This is why the Nutrition 774 (N774) Initiative is timely and essential. Its community-based, multi-sectoral approach rightly recognises that nutrition is connected to health, agriculture, education, social protection, and WASH.

“By focusing on strengthening our local nutrition efforts and empowering our women, the N774 Initiative aligns with our state’s ‘Rescue Agenda.’ To that end, I am proud to announce that we have formally constituted the Zamfara State Council on Nutrition and our full commitment to the N774 Initiative.”

Mr Lawal said the Zamfara council, composed of key commissioners and leaders, has the authority to set policy, coordinate efforts, and supervise all nutrition activities.

“One of the council’s primary tasks is to drive the N774 Initiative to every local government in our state. This launch today is therefore a call to action. To our partners in the national team, we are ready to work and rely on your support to build our local teams’ capacity for a smooth rollout.

“My administration is committed to this partnership, providing leadership and resources to ensure the success and sustainability of the N774 Initiative in Zamfara,” he said.

Earlier, the senior special assistant to the president on public health, Uju Anwukah, commended the performance of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, especially in the health sector.

Ms Anwukah said the N774 initiative aims to build a well-nourished and healthy Nigeria by strengthening local and national nutrition efforts.

(NAN)