The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, has said that the nation faces a mounting crisis of malnutrition and food insecurity that poses a serious threat to the well-being of its citizens, the resilience of its economy, and the stability of its communities.
Abass stated this while delivering his remarks at the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee for National Assembly On Nutrition and Food Security at the House of Representatives, Abuja.
Represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Speaker said that these challenges, though not unique to Nigeria, strike at the heart of our nation’s development, leaving a profound impact on health, education, and productivity.
He lamented that lack of proper nutrition during the critical stages of growth stunts physical and cognitive development, hence the need for legislative action to address the critical issues of malnutrition and food security.
The Speaker stated that the National Summit wil provide a vital forum to raise
awareness, pool resources, and establish actionable goals for the future.
Abass assured of the House commitment in supporting the committee with all necessary support for success; urging them to fulfil their mandate and ensure collaboration with the State Houses of Assembly, in line with the National Legislative Network.
The Speaker said, “It is with immense pride and a profound sense of duty that I join you today to witness the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee for the National Summit on Nutrition and Food Security. This marks a historic moment for the National Assembly, as we unite for the first time at this level to address the critical issues of malnutrition and food security through legislative action.
“Nigeria faces a mounting crisis of malnutrition and food insecurity that poses a serious threat to the well-being of its citizens, the resilience of its economy, and the stability of its communities. Today, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of malnutrition in sub- Saharan Africa, affecting children, adolescents, and adults alike. It’s a crisis that requires both immediate action and sustainable, long-term solutions.
“Malnutrition, in particular, has devastating effects on the most vulnerable members of our society-children. Lack of proper nutrition during the critical stages of growth stunts physical and cognitive development, setting a trajectory of reduced academic achievement, lower earning potential, and increased susceptibility to health issues. For adults, malnutrition reduces the productivity and overall health of our workforce, weakening our ability to compete in the global economy.
“The need for this National Summit on Nutrition and Food Security has never been more urgent. This organizing committee is tasked with bringing the summit to fruition by coordinating
efforts across ministries, states, and engaging both public and private sectors. Its mission is to create a platform for legislators, experts, and community leaders to collaborate, share insights, and drive collective action to address the root causes of our nutrition and food security challenges. Your commitment will be instrumental in addressing the nation’s pressing nutrition and food security challenges and the National Summit will hopefully address current shortages and associated risks, with the goal of formulating sustainable, long-term solutions” The Speaker added.
Resolving issues of health
The Chairman House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Mr. Chike Okafor, said that the forthcoming National Summit on Nutrition and Food Security would resolve the pressing issues impacting the health and well-being of Nigeria.
“This committee will serve as the cornerstone for coordinating our efforts, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the success of this crucial summit dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges facing our nation in the spheres of nutrition and food security. This our efforts through the National Legislative Network is to compliment the numerous efforts being put in place by the Executive arm of government through the office of the Vice President of Federal Republic of Nigeria” Mr. Okafor said.
He noted that the recent natural disasters, such as the devastating floods in states like Adamawa, Maiduguri, and Jigawa, have not only caused widespread destruction but have also disrupted food supplies and access to vital nutrition, exacerbating an already precarious situation.
He added that the summit will present a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria to not only assess the current state of nutrition and food security in Nigeria but also to craft comprehensive strategies and policies that will safeguard the well-being of our citizens, particularly the vulnerable children from a legislative standpoint.
Emmanuel Ukoh
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