Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has declared his readiness to take decisive action against the scourge of malnutrition affecting millions of children in Northern Nigeria, The Nation reported.
His commitment was revealed at a high-level dialogue on malnutrition held at the Lagos-Osun Hall, Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, organized by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health.
Addressing a gathering of stakeholders including fellow governors, ministers, and key officials, Governor Radda highlighted the urgent need to address the alarming statistics of malnutrition, particularly in his state. With over 10 million children suffering from acute malnutrition in Northern Nigeria, Radda stressed the gravity of the crisis and the necessity for immediate intervention.
"The magnitude of this crisis demands our immediate and sustained attention," Governor Radda asserted. "In Katsina, we are witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of malnutrition on our children and families. It is our responsibility to act swiftly and decisively."
The event brought together notable figures such as Governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, and the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State. Also in attendance were key federal officials including the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, and Mrs. Sughra Mahmood, Director of Nutrition, representing the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.
Governor Radda advocated for a reallocation of federal resources to address the pressing needs of the Northwest and North Central regions, which are particularly vulnerable due to heightened insecurity exacerbating food insecurity and malnutrition. He pledged Katsina State's commitment to contribute its counterpart funds where necessary and expressed openness to partnerships to tackle these critical issues.
"We in Katsina State are ready to lead by example," Governor Radda affirmed. "We are prepared to allocate resources, implement policies, and work hand-in-hand with development partners to tackle this crisis head-on."