By Oboh Ogbu
Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), an NGO has tasked government at all levels to increase budget line for nutrition in order to scale up Multiple Micro-nutrient Supplements (MMS) in Nigeria to combat anemia.
Mr Sunday Okoronkwo, CS-SUNN Executive Secretary said this at a two Day Strengthening Media Capacity for Improved Visibility of Anaemia Reduction Through Scale -Up of MMS in Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to him, the media training is a clarion call to journalists to join hands in a concerted effort to amplify the message that the fight against anemia is winnable.
The Executive Secretary explained that the anemia’s impact on health, cognitive development, and overall productivity was a barrier that must be dismantled for the prosperity and well-being of communities.
He, therefore appealed to the governments and state actors to facilitate and increase nutritional budget as well as timely release of counter part funding so as to scale up MMS in the country.
He said,” Today, we stand at the crossroads of an urgent and collective challenge-the reduction of anemia, a hidden hunger that affects millions, particularly women and children, across our vibrant nation.
“And the scale-up of MMS is a scientifically proven strategy we must embrace to address the menace.
‘Recognizing the power of informed advocacy and the critical role that media plays in shaping public discourse, CS-SUNN, through this initiative, aims to empower you with the knowledge and tools to communicate the importance of MMS and nutrition interventions.
” Your voices will echo in homes, policy chambers, and health institutions, igniting action and fostering accountability,”.
Mrs Chito Nelson, Head of Food and Nutrition, Federal Ministry of Finance and National Planning, in her Presentation on Nutrition Situation in Nigeria said MMS was efficacious, safe cost effective and affordable.
She said further that MMS has necessary vitamins and minerals including iron and folic acid in recommended dosage to prevent anemia and adverse birth outcomes.
“Malnutrition remains a serious concern in Nigeria with stunting and wasting of 37 and 7 percent for children under 5 respectively.
“58 percent of women of reproductive age and 68 of children are anemic, wasting and stunting are associated with increased mortality especially when both are presented in same child.
“So, now is the time to accelerate implementation and address key issues such as ensuring effective and equitable coverage and sustainable supply of high – quality and affordable supplements,” she said.