The Bauchi State Government has announced plans to significantly increase its investment in combating malnutrition, with a proposal to raise its contribution to the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF) from N300 million to N1 billion in the 2026 fiscal year.
This disclosure was made by Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), during a news conference held on Wednesday in Bauchi.
Dr. Rafique stated that the decision was a key outcome of a high-level meeting with Governor Bala Mohammed on Monday. The Child Nutrition Fund is a multi-donor basket fund managed by UNICEF, established to catalyze investments and address the critical issue of child malnutrition across Nigeria.
Emphasizing the importance of community engagement, Dr. Rafique identified behavioral change as a central strategy in the fight against malnutrition. She explained that effective interventions should commence from pregnancy and extend through a child’s first two years of life.
The UNICEF official commended communities within the state for taking initiative and ownership of health programs. She specifically praised Ganjuwa and Misau local government areas for their innovative approach of providing bicycles to volunteers, which enhances their ability to reach remote and hard-to-access communities.
“This will go a long way in addressing logistics challenges, as men are often the key decision-makers in households,” she said, highlighting the role of community structures like the ‘Fathers for Good Health’ groups, ‘Mama2Mama’ groups, health promoters, and volunteers in advancing healthcare and combating issues like open defecation.
Dr. Rafique added that UNICEF’s new leadership has encouraged the state to adopt localized strategies to promote healthy eating habits and sustainable practices as part of a comprehensive approach to malnutrition.
She also called on the media to play a pivotal role by creating nutrition-focused content capable of reaching grassroots audiences and inspiring lasting behavioral change.
Furthermore, Dr. Rafique noted that UNICEF is awaiting the release of the state’s already committed N300 million in matching funds to begin the procurement process for essential nutritional supplies.
Also speaking at the conference, Dr. George Eki, a UNICEF Social and Behavioural Change Specialist, provided details on community involvement, revealing that 1,660 men across 166 wards in 10 local government areas have been enlisted as members of the ‘Fathers for Good Health’ initiative.