Ibadan | February 10, 2025

The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched a four-year Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan of Action on Food and Nutrition to address malnutrition and hunger among children and women in the state.

The initiative was formally unveiled in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Misbaudeen Babatunde, who reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating malnutrition within its borders.

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Government’s Commitment to Nutrition and Health

Represented by Executive Assistant on Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Gafar Bello, Babatunde emphasized that the food and nutrition policy will serve as a comprehensive framework to address food security and nutrition challenges across all levels—households, communities, local governments, and the state.

“This document serves as a road map that aligns with the policies of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration. We expect that, if well implemented, it will significantly reduce malnutrition rates,” he said.

The government has allocated ₦250 million as its counterpart fund for the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria project, a World Bank initiative launched in March 2020. Additionally, another ₦100 million has been allocated for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund project, bringing the total counterpart contribution to ₦350 million for nutrition-focused interventions.

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UNICEF: Malnutrition a Major Cause of Child Mortality

Speaking at the event, UNICEF representative Boluwatife Ogunjimi disclosed that the rate of stunted growth among children in Oyo State currently stands at 34.5%.

“Malnutrition is a major contributor to child mortality. Good nutrition plays a critical role in preventing child deaths,” Ogunjimi stated.

She commended the Oyo State Government for its financial commitment and urged all stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the nutrition plan.

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Development Agenda 2040: A Long-Term Vision

Babatunde also announced that the state government has developed and launched a home-grown 20-year Development Plan, termed Agenda 2040.

The long-term blueprint, he explained, integrates inputs from various stakeholders, including state and non-state actors, with a vision for sustained economic growth, employment generation, and improved social services for women and children.

In his remarks, Permanent Secretary Tunde Ayanleke assured UNICEF and other development partners that the state government will fully implement the strategic plan, ensuring that human, material, and financial resources are effectively utilized to yield positive outcomes in combating malnutrition.

With this initiative, Oyo State aims to significantly reduce malnutrition rates and improve food security, child survival, and overall public health across the state.