By Diana Oluwole/Paulet/Sarah Oguma
the Delta State Committee on Food and Nutrition (SCFN), has called on the Udu Local Government Council to establish a dedicated budget for food and nutrition initiatives.
An Assistant Director in SCFN, Mrs. Deborah Okubio made this appeal during an advocacy visit to the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State.
She emphasized the need for a local food and nutrition committee to promote optimal nutrition, ensure food security, and address malnutrition challenges within the community.
Mrs. Okubio noted that such a committee would play a crucial role in developing and implementing nutrition-related policies and programs, collaborating with stakeholders, and monitoring and evaluating nutrition outcomes.
She highlighted the prevalence of malnutrition in rural communities, noting that it leads to growth retardation, stillbirths, and reduced physical performance in both children and adults.
The local government committee also stressed the need for adequate funding from the council to carry out its functions effectively. Additionally, the committee emphasized the importance of establishing a secretariat in Udu, headed by the Vice Chairman, to implement programs and combat hunger.
Dr. Michael Emeshili, a committee member from the Ministry of Education, pointed out that Udu was one of six communities with high rates of stunted growth due to malnutrition. He urged the local food and nutrition committee to function optimally to help curb hunger in the area.
Mrs. Omojewve Onajite, represented by the Wife of the Council Chairman, assured the committee that the message would be taken to the Council Executive for implementation.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of a policy booklet to the Local Government committee.
