The Oyo State government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has introduced a four-year Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan of Action on Food and Nutrition (OYSMPFAN) aimed at combating malnutrition and hunger among children and women in the state.
The initiative was officially launched in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Misbaudeen Babatunde, who was represented by his executive assistant on finance, budget, and economic planning, Gafar Bello.
Babatunde reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating malnutrition and improving food security at all levels, from individual households to the entire state.
The commissioner also acknowledged UNICEF’s ongoing support in advancing the welfare of children, women, and other vulnerable groups in Oyo State.
To strengthen these efforts, the state government allocated ₦250 million as its counterpart funding for the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN) project, a World Bank-backed initiative that began in 2020.
Additionally, ₦100 million has been contributed towards the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, bringing the total financial commitment to nutrition initiatives to ₦350 million.
According to Babatunde, the newly launched plan serves as a strategic guide in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s policies.
He expressed concern over the current level of child malnutrition, stating that proper implementation of the policy is expected to reduce the stunted growth rate among children in the state.
He further highlighted the state government’s broader development efforts, including a 20-year home-grown development plan known as Agenda 2040. This plan incorporates insights from various stakeholders, including government agencies and non-state actors, to ensure long-term progress.
Babatunde assured UNICEF that the government remains committed to safeguarding children’s welfare in line with the Child Rights Law 2006.
A UNICEF representative, Mr Boluwatife Ogunjimi, revealed that the stunted growth rate among children in Oyo State stands at approximately 34.5%.
He emphasised that malnutrition significantly contributes to child mortality and that proper nutrition plays a crucial role in reducing child deaths.
The Permanent Secretary, Tunde Ayanleke, also reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing the strategies outlined in the plan.
He stressed that all human, material, and financial resources dedicated to the initiative would be utilised effectively to achieve the desired outcomes.
