Malnutrition: CSSUNN Engages Key MDAs to Promote Healthy Nutrition in Schools in Gombe

By Rebecca Caleb Maina

In its continued bid to address malnutrition in Gombe State, the Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CSSUNN) has intensified its advocacy efforts by engaging key government institutions.

The organization is seeking stronger collaboration on nutrition-focused initiatives, with a particular emphasis on school gardening, the timely release of nutrition funds, and the extension of maternity leave.

Malnutrition remains a significant challenge in many communities, affecting children’s growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being. Poor nutrition among students can lead to reduced academic performance, weakened immune systems, and long-term health complications.

Recognizing the critical role of schools in promoting good nutrition, CSSUNN is working with government agencies to implement sustainable strategies that enhance food security, dietary diversity, and agricultural education.

Education Ministry’s Commitment to Nutrition

During a visit to the Ministry of Education, the Commissioner, Professor Aishatu Maigari, reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to ensuring the holistic development of students beyond academics.

Miagari highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate nutrition programs into the school system, emphasizing the importance of engaging students in practical food production.

 “We are not only focused on classroom education; we also prioritize the overall well-being of our students,” she stated.

“That is why we have introduced nutrition clubs, school gardening, and forestry programs in schools. These initiatives engage both boys and girls, equipping them with farming skills and knowledge on preparing nutritious meals using locally sourced ingredients.”

The Commissioners further explained that under the Human Capital Development Project, selected secondary schools were being supported to produce Tom Brown, a highly nutritious complementary food used to combat malnutrition.

 “Through this initiative, students are learning to prepare Tom Brown, which plays a crucial role in addressing malnutrition at the community level,” she added.

Tom Brown, made from a blend of locally available grains such as maize, millet, soya beans and groundnuts, is a cost-effective solution for improving child nutrition.

By engaging students in its production, the initiative not only provides hands-on agricultural skills but also promotes awareness of healthy eating habits among young people.

Agriculture Ministry’s Support for Nutrition-Focused Projects

At the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Commissioner Dr. Barnabas Malle reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting nutrition-focused initiatives and ensuring access to the necessary technical expertise.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders in tackling food insecurity and malnutrition.

 “As a key stakeholder in this fight, we are committed to providing the expertise and resources needed to ensure the success of CSSUNN’s initiatives,” he stated.

Dr. Malle also revealed that, in partnership with the Office of the Gombe State First Lady, the ministry had recently launched Young Farmers Clubs in five secondary schools.

“These clubs will equip students with hands-on agricultural skills, promoting food security and improved nutrition,” he noted.

The Young Farmers Club initiative is designed to inspire a new generation of agriculturists and food producers. Through this program, students are introduced to modern agricultural techniques, crop cultivation, and livestock management, all of which contribute to long-term food security in the state.

CSSUNN’s Advocacy for Sustainable Nutrition Policies

Earlier, CSSUNN’s State Coordinator, Mrs. Comfort Amos Mukollo, outlined the purpose of the advocacy visit, stressing the need for inter-ministerial partnerships to achieve sustainable nutrition interventions.

She emphasized the importance of implementing school-based nutrition programs and called for increased government support.

 “We are advocating for the establishment of school gardening and nutrition clubs,” she stated.

“Additionally, through the UNICEF-supported advocacy program, we are pushing for the timely release of nutrition budgets and an extension of maternity leave from four to six months. We need the support of key ministries to ensure sustained efforts in tackling malnutrition in Gombe State.”

By advocating for an extension of maternity leave, CSSUNN aims to enable mothers to exclusively breastfeed for six months, ensuring that infants receive essential nutrients crucial for early development.

The commitment of government ministries to CSSUNN’s vision signals a positive step toward reducing malnutrition and food insecurity in Gombe State.

 With continued collaboration, the integration of school gardening, nutrition clubs, and agricultural programs is expected to have a lasting impact on students and their communities, fostering a healthier, well-nourished, and food-secure future