In a recent address at the Women In Power Conference 2026, Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, highlighted the significance of nutrition in human capital development. As a medical doctor, she emphasized that proper nutrition is crucial for children to grow, learn, and survive. This stance aligns with Governor Uba Sani's development agenda, which prioritizes nutrition as a vital component.
Dr. Balarabe further stressed that investing in nutrition is not solely an investment in health, but also in the future of Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole. She assured that the current administration, under Governor Uba Sani, will continue to provide leadership in nutrition financing and related health activities. This commitment is reflected in recent achievements, such as the 82 percent Vitamin A supplementation coverage and 79 percent coverage for Mid-Upper Arm Circumference screening recorded during the June 2026 Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week.
The Deputy Governor cited notable progress in addressing malnutrition, particularly in the treatment of severe acute malnutrition. In 2025, a total of 30,089 children across the 23 Local Government Areas benefited from the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition program. Dr. Balarabe attributed these successes to collaborative efforts between the government, communities, development partners, health workers, and civil society.
Dr. Balarabe advised states to prioritize nutrition financing, emphasizing that effective implementation and accountability are crucial for achieving desired outcomes. She highlighted the importance of predictable resources, measurable outcomes, and coordination in ensuring the success of nutrition-related policies. The Deputy Governor's remarks underscore the need for sustained commitment to nutrition financing and programming.
The Kaduna State government has developed a new 2026–2030 Food and Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan, which aims to consolidate gains and strengthen coordination. This policy framework seeks to integrate nutrition into government planning, budgeting, and implementation. Dr. Balarabe expressed appreciation for the recognition of the Kaduna State Planning and Budget Commission and the Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria as Kaduna State Nutrition Champions.
In her remarks, Dr. Balarabe acknowledged the recognition bestowed upon her and other stakeholders, emphasizing that it serves as a call to service rather than a personal achievement. She stressed that leadership is measured by the positive impact on people's lives, rather than the titles held. The Deputy Governor's sentiments reflect a commitment to collaborative efforts in advancing nutrition and human capital development in Kaduna State.
The emphasis on nutrition financing and coordination underscores the complexities of addressing malnutrition in Nigeria. As Kaduna State continues to prioritize nutrition, the state government's efforts may serve as a model for other states to follow. The recognition of stakeholders as nutrition champions highlights the importance of partnerships in driving progress in this critical area.
Key points
- Investing in nutrition is crucial for human capital development and has far-reaching benefits for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
- Kaduna State has made notable progress in addressing malnutrition, including the treatment of severe acute malnutrition and Vitamin A supplementation coverage.
- The state government's new Food and Nutrition Policy and Strategic Plan aims to consolidate gains, strengthen coordination, and integrate nutrition into government planning and budgeting.
