The Bauchi State government, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has commenced a strategic plan to end malnutrition in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life.
The state and the international agency are being supported by the United States government with a $3.5 million support to seven states to develop a robust action to end stunting and wasting caused by child malnutrition.
Bauchi, according to national data, records 153 deaths per 1,000 live births. Also, more than 75 per cent of women suffer from anaemia, while stunting is over 60 per cent.
According to UNICEF’s Chief of Bauchi Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, represented by a nutrition specialist, Philomena Irene, the U.S. government has supported the initiative to ensure that from conception till when a child is two years old, malnutrition is prevented.
“These statistics are not what we are proud of, even as UNICEF. We are thankful that the government has provided an enabling environment for us to tackle these challenges,” she added.
The programme focuses on mothers and infants across the state to nurture children with sharp and healthy brains, saying it is vital for physical growth, brain development, and long-term health.
Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam, described the drive as critical to safeguarding child survival and development.
He tasked local government officials who are champions of nutrition in their councils, stating: “You are strong stakeholders for everything that affects your local government, and you have the full backing of your chairmen.”
Executive Chairman of Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, said maternal health and infant care during the first 1,000 days determine whether a child would thrive or face life-long setbacks.
Mohammed urged pregnant women to attend antenatal care, warning that missing pregnancy care raises risks of complications, preterm births, low birth weight, and maternal death.
He also emphasised exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, noting that breast milk provides sufficient water, nutrients, and antibodies.