The Katsina State Government on Wednesday inaugurated a 15-member special committee to assess and address malnutrition across the state.
Governor Dikko Radda, while inaugurating the committee in Katsina, said the move was prompted by recent reports indicating the severity of the problem.
Radda, who joined the event virtually, said the committee was tasked with reviewing the recent Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) malnutrition report and identify the most affected areas and households.
He said the committee would also recommend urgent measures on the effective distribution of assorted grains from government’s food reserves.
The Governor expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to address the issue and welcomed the MSF report as a “wake-up call,” despite some contested aspects.
“I remember visiting one of the centres in July, and what I saw was deeply unpleasant to anyone with a heart.
“We cannot deny that we have a problem of malnutrition—not just in Katsina, but across the country.
“We must act to ensure every child survives, receives education and healthcare, and enjoys the basic infrastructure for a better life.
“We want to see swift action. Submit your report quickly so we can start implementing recommendations.
“We thank all—whether critics or supporters—whose comments have pushed us to act faster,” Radda stated.
In his remarks, the state Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal-Jobe, reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating malnutrition, stressing that the committee’s work would be central to shaping government action.
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“This committee’s work will be crucial in guiding the government’s response and ensuring that no community is left behind,” he added.
Lawal-Jobe said the committee would submit its report within two weeks of inauguration.
Dr Ahmed Filin-Samji, the Chairman of Zakat and Waqaf Board, would also serve as committee’s Chairman, while Abdulrahman Abdullahi, who is the Chairman, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) would be the Vice Chairman
Members were representatives from Katsina House of Assembly, Ministry of Special Duties, Katsina and Daura Emirates, Izala and Darika Islamic Sects, ALGON, Executive Secretary, State Primary Healthcare Agency and Statistician-General, among others.