NGO: Malnutrition Remains Leading Threat to Child Survival in Nigeria
A coalition of non-governmental organizations, Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), has warned that malnutrition continues to pose the greatest threat to child survival in Nigeria.
Despite various interventions, malnutrition remains a significant public health concern and a hindrance to child growth and development.
Read Also:
According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition refers to deficiencies or excesses in nutrient intake, imbalance of essential nutrients, or impaired nutrient utilization. The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) reports that nearly half of all deaths in children under 5 are attributable to undernutrition, which also increases the risk of death from common infections.
In Bauchi State, the 2018 National Demographic Health Survey revealed alarming rates of malnutrition: 46% stunting, 9.5% wasting, 28.2% underweight, and 0.5% overweight. CS-SUNN Secretary, Dabis Mwaike, emphasized the urgency for action, citing inadequate funding as a significant challenge in efforts to eliminate malnutrition.
Despite these challenges, CS-SUNN has made significant strides in addressing malnutrition nationwide, partnering with government agencies, development partners, the media, and communities to implement nutrition interventions.
As the organization marks its 10th anniversary, it reflects on its journey and reaffirms its commitment to combating malnutrition and ensuring a healthier future for Nigerian children.
