Writing By Bello Wakili; Editing By Godwin Duru
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the North-East zone of the National Community Food Bank Programme as part of efforts to tackle child malnutrition in the country.
The launch took place in Maiduguri, Borno State, where the First Lady described child malnutrition as a pressing national challenge requiring urgent intervention.
She said the programme is designed to provide nutritious food to vulnerable groups, including malnourished mothers, pregnant women, and children between zero and six years.
Senator Tinubu noted that millions of Nigerian children still lack access to adequate nutrition, stressing that the Federal Government is expanding the initiative nationwide to reach those most in need.
She called for sustained collaboration among government, private sector, and communities to ensure the success and sustainability of the programme.
The First Lady added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of food security and improved healthcare.
In his remarks, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, commended the Federal Government for its continued support to the state, especially in addressing challenges caused by insurgency.
Also speaking, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, explained that the programme will establish community-based food banks across all local government areas.
He said beneficiaries will receive vouchers for nutritious, locally sourced food through primary healthcare centres, with funding support approved by President Tinubu.
On his part, the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the initiative will ensure that identified malnourished mothers and children receive targeted food support through a structured distribution system.
The First Lady also commissioned a Nurses’ Quarters, as well as junior and secondary schools in the state, and met with the Shehu of Borno and other traditional leaders.
Bello Wakili
