VP Shettima urges lawmakers to enact laws for nutrition, food security
By Kunle Sanni
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on lawmakers across the country to pass legislation that enhances nutrition and food security, ensuring every Nigerian household has access to a balanced diet for a healthy and productive life.
Speaking at a meeting with the National Legislative Network on Nutrition and Food Security at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, Shettima emphasized the Nutrition 774 Initiative as a key government-led effort to improve coordination, financing, and accountability in tackling malnutrition.
The delegation was led by Hon. Chike Okafor, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nutrition and Food Security.
“For too long, our responses to malnutrition have been fragmented, donor-driven, and inconsistent. Nutrition 774 changes that—it is government-led, government-funded, and government-implemented because we understand that food security cannot be outsourced,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President stressed the critical role of lawmakers in ensuring the success of the initiative. He urged them to review key policies, including maternity leave laws to improve infant nutrition, the removal of multiple taxation on food products, and other measures to reduce inflation and improve food accessibility.
“We have had enough reports, enough recommendations, and enough committees. What Nigeria needs now is action. The success of this initiative will be measured by a reduction in stunting, better nutrition for schoolchildren, and improved maternal health,” Shettima added.
He linked malnutrition to national insecurity, noting that regions facing severe food shortages are also the most affected by violence and instability. He warned that desperation due to hunger could fuel further unrest.
“When young people are denied a fair shot at life because of poor nutrition, the consequences ripple through generations. Investing in nutrition is not just a moral duty; it is an investment in national security, economic growth, and long-term stability,” Shettima said.
