CS-SUNN Commends Gov. Sule for Approving ₦250m to Tackle Child Malnutrition

By David Odama

The Civil Society Scaling Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) has applauded Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State for his firm commitment to improving child and maternal nutrition across the state.

A member of CS-SUNN’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Terfa Kene, gave the commendation during an advocacy visit to Governor Sule at the Government House, Lafia.

Dr. Kene highlighted that the governor’s approval of ₦250 million as counterpart funding to UNICEF, his support for six months of paid maternity leave, and his decision to allocate land for the proposed ASPIRE Hub, reflect a clear determination to tackle the state’s 39 percent child stunting rate.

According to him, the ₦250 million already released to UNICEF has unlocked Nasarawa State’s participation in the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF).

Emphasizing the dangers of malnutrition, Kene noted:
“Stunting affects the brain development of a child. If not properly addressed, it could jeopardize the future human resources of the state. Nasarawa’s action demonstrates resilience and commitment, making it one of the few states investing concretely in nutrition.”

He added that the funding will help procure vital commodities such as Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), micronutrient powders, and fortified supplements — areas where many other states are yet to take action.

Kene further explained that Nasarawa has an advantage with the planned Project ASPIRE Hub, which will serve as a long-term investment in nutrition-sensitive development. Through its demonstration farms, crops such as sesame, rice, and yam — already abundant in the state — will be harnessed to strengthen food security and nutrition.

In his remarks, Governor Sule shared his personal belief in the benefits of breastfeeding, saying:
“My children were breastfed for at least 18 months. I encourage that we continue to give mothers and children the support they need.”

To this end, the governor announced the extension of maternity leave for nursing mothers in the state from three to six months, aligning with global best practices that promote exclusive breastfeeding.

He directed the Head of Service to formally present the policy at the next State Executive Council meeting for approval.