:Says the council serves as a platform for collective action
Daily Chronicle
The Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau on Wednesday said the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed prioritized nutrition as a key focus area with the allocation of significant resources to tackle malnutrition thereby improving nutrition outcomes.
This was contained in a press release issued by Muslim Lawal, (anipr),
Special Assistant (Media) to Bauchi State Deputy Governor and made available to newsmen on Thursday.
Speaking at the inauguration of the State Council on Nutrition held at the conference hall of his office, Auwal Jatau said the present administration has on coming on board, embraced a multi-sectoral approach that spans agriculture, health, education, social welfare, and infrastructure development with the aim to create sustainable changes in communities.
He said the fight against malnutrition requires sustained efforts and collaborations from all stakeholders to ensure that no child in the state falls victim to the preventable tragedy, hence the need to set up the Council to serve as a platform for collective action.
The Deputy Governor who is the chairman of the council, noted that, collective efforts will be crucial in formulating evidence-based strategies, coordinating activities, and driving progress towards achieving the nutrition’s goals by laying a strong foundation for the effective implementation of state-wide nutrition interventions, policies, and programs.
“Today marks a significant step towards our shared goal of addressing the challenges faced by our communities in relation to nutrition. Nutrition, as we are all aware, is not just a health issue, but a critical driver of development.
“In Bauchi State, we have seen the devastating effects of malnutrition on our communities, particularly among children and vulnerable populations. It is disheartening to witness the negative impact of this silent crisis on the future of our state. However, let us not lose hope. Today, we are here with a shared vision, focus and determination to tackle this challenges head-on and create a healthier and brighter future for our people.”
Auwal Jatau then appreciated USAID, UNICEF and other development partners for their numerous interventions and support towards the overall development of the state through addressing challenges in critical areas of human survival and reaffirmed the readiness of the state government towards MoU obligations for better service delivery.
“This Council represents a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, experts, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Our commitment as a government goes beyond public speaking, it extends to concrete action. Together, let us make Bauchi State a shining example of a community that prioritizes nutrition and thrives as a result.”
In a key note address, the Assistant Country Director of the CARE International, Jennifer Orgle assured of the readiness and willingness of the organisation to continue to support the state government in the implementation of nutrition policies.