FG SEEKS PRIVATE-SECTOR INVESTMENT TO TACKLE MALNUTRITION

As part of efforts to tackle malnutrition and promote economic growth, the Federal Government has called for increased private-sector investment in the local production, processing and distribution of nutritious foods.

Vice President Kashim Shettima made the call at a Private Sector High-Level Roundtable on Nutrition in Abuja, which focused on mobilising investment and strengthening collaboration among government, businesses and development partners.

Represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Uju Anwukah, the Vice President said the Nutrition 774 Initiative was designed to accelerate action against malnutrition across the country’s local government areas.

He also urged businesses and financial institutions to move beyond donations and invest in viable nutrition enterprises, including local food production, food fortification and supply chains capable of reaching underserved communities.

The Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan-Enoh, described nutrition as a key driver of enterprise competitiveness, workforce productivity and wealth creation.
He noted that Nigeria faces both undernutrition and rising diet-related diseases.

Senator Owan-Enoh further stated that addressing the country’s nutrition challenges would not only improve public health outcomes but also strengthen Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, boost productivity and support long-term economic development.