Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has approved the distribution of 90,000 bags of grains to vulnerable households across the state.
The decision was announced on Monday in Katsina, shortly after the governor received the final report of the Special Committee on Malnutrition, which was recently inaugurated to address the growing crisis.
Radda directed the committee to oversee the distribution of food items procured in 2024 for emergency use, stressing the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the process.
He also revealed plans to establish Outpatient Therapeutic Programme (OTP) centres in all 34 Local Government Areas, to provide timely treatment and specialised care for malnourished children. According to him, the centres will bring lifesaving interventions closer to families in need.
Commending the committee, the governor applauded its dedication and noted that the report had provided both a clearer picture of the situation and practical recommendations for action.
Radda, however, issued a stern warning against the diversion of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), locally known as Dan Kwamaso, stressing that the product was strictly meant for malnourished children. He vowed sanctions against any health worker or official found guilty of tampering with the supplies.
“We cannot compromise when it comes to saving children’s lives. Anyone caught diverting or misusing these items will face serious consequences,” he declared.
Presenting the committee’s findings, Chairman Dr. Ahmad Filin-Samji said the team uncovered alarming levels of stunting, wasting, and underweight among children in the state. He noted that weaknesses in supply chain management, widespread poverty, and cases of RUTF diversion were further aggravating the crisis.
According to him, a recent survey revealed that nearly half of households in Katsina live below the minimum expenditure threshold, making them highly vulnerable to hunger and malnutrition.
The committee recommended strengthening the food distribution chain, enforcing strict penalties for diversion, prioritising support for the hardest-hit households, and increasing advocacy on exclusive breastfeeding as a quick and effective way to reduce child malnutrition.