By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
UNICEF Nigeria Bauchi Field Office, with support from the United States Government has supported the launch of a new nutrition intervention in Bauchi State aimed at improving child survival and development during the first 1,000 days of life.
The programme, inaugurated by the Bauchi State Government, targets the crucial period from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday, widely regarded as the most important stage for healthy growth and brain development.
Giving an overview of the initiative at the inception meeting in Bauchi on Tuesday, UNICEF’s BFO Nutrition Specialist, Philomena Irene said the intervention is aimed to prevent malnutrition and ensure that mothers and children receive the right nutrition, healthcare and support needed for a healthy start in life.
Irene said that proper nutrition during the 1000 days of a child’s life helps children grow stronger, learn better and reduces the risk of illness, stunting and other lifelong challenges, and that it also improves the wellbeing of families and strengthens communities through healthier future generations.
Unveiling the initiative, Bauchi State Commissioner of Health and Social Welfare Dr. Sani Muhammad Dambam noted that the intervention reflects the commitment of the State Government to improving maternal and child health in Bauchi State.
Dr. Dambam added that collaboration between government and development partners such as UNICEF remains vital to tackling malnutrition and ensuring every child in Bauchi State has the opportunity to survive, thrive and reach full potential.
He thanked the United States Government for supporting the initiative and pledged the State Government’s commitment for the successful implementation of the initiative.
