One in Four Kids Under Five Are Stunted in Akwa Ibom

Almost one in four children under five in Akwa Ibom State is stunted. This shows the serious problem of chronic malnutrition in the state. The government is working to coordinate nutrition efforts in all 31 local government areas.

The 2023, 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey puts the stunting rate in Akwa Ibom at 24.1 percent. This matches figures from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Nationally, 40 percent of children under five are stunted, according to the survey.

Stunting happens when children are shorter than they should be for their age due to long-term undernutrition. It can slow down physical growth and brain development. This can hurt learning and affect how productive they are as adults.

These issues were discussed on Tuesday during the launch of Local Government Committees on Food and Nutrition in all 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom.

The event took place in Uyo. The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning organized it with help from UNICEF.

UNICEF’s nutrition expert, Oluniyi Oyedokun, said the stunting problem in the state needs a coordinated approach to tackle the causes of childhood malnutrition. He noted that stunting is linked to poor nutrition, especially in the first 1,000 days of a child's life, from conception to the age of two.

This period is crucial for growth and brain development. If children do not get enough nutrition during this time, it can have serious effects on their health and growth.

Mr. Oyedokun warned that stunted children are at a higher risk of poor brain development, low school performance, frequent sickness, and lower productivity as adults.

He said forming nutrition committees in all 31 local government areas aims to bring help closer to communities. It will also strengthen the implementation of the National Policy on Food and Nutrition.

He asked for teamwork among the health, agriculture, education, water, and sanitation sectors. He pointed out that fighting malnutrition needs actions beyond just health services.

The Akwa Ibom State Government stated that these committees will coordinate, monitor, and implement nutrition programs in their local areas.

The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Nsikan Nkan, said the launch of the 217-member committees fits with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda. This agenda focuses on human capital development and a healthy, productive population.

These committees are expected to boost coordination among government agencies and other groups. They aim to tackle food insecurity and malnutrition in their communities.