Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State are participating in a five-day workshop to adapt the National Social Behaviour Change (SBC) Strategy, supporting community mobilization efforts under the Advancing Nutrition in Nigeria Project.
The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Helen Keller International, aims to address malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Mrs. Grace Mogekwu, representative of the Director and Head of the Nutrition Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized the federal significance of the activity.
“There is a need to promote nutrition across the life cycle; nutrition is a continuum of care,” she stated.
Mogekwu encouraged stakeholders to explore innovative approaches and effectively utilize both domestic and international resources to ensure successful implementation of the strategy.
Dr. Idongesit Bassey Umoh, Akwa Ibom State Nutrition Officer, welcomed participants, describing the workshop as a significant step toward raising awareness about nutrition issues in the state.
She highlighted the increasing prevalence of malnutrition in Akwa Ibom and emphasized the need for urgent attention.
“We cannot succeed alone, but as a team, we will succeed,” Dr. Umoh said, urging participants to ensure punctuality throughout the meeting.
Mr. Muyiwa Olowe, speaking on behalf of the Country Director and Chief of Party of the project, expressed gratitude to participants and partners for their support.
He highlighted Helen Keller International’s core values of collaboration and commitment, noting that the strong support received affirmed the Advancing Nutrition in Nigeria project’s positive trajectory in Akwa Ibom State.
Olowe encouraged the state to take ownership of the project, emphasizing that it would create opportunities for stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to improving nutrition outcomes.
The workshop discussions are expected to contribute to improving the nutritional status of residents in Akwa Ibom State, with the strategy serving as a guiding document.
The Advancing Nutrition in Nigeria project is a multisectoral initiative collaborating with Akwa Ibom State and key stakeholders to address malnutrition.
