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) to combat malnutrition and hunger among women and children in the state.
The initiative was officially launched in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Musbau Babatunde.
During the event, Babatunde reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to eliminating malnutrition across Oyo State.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner, the Executive Assistant on Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Alhaji Gafar Bello, emphasized that the food and nutrition policy would serve as a framework for addressing food and nutrition security challenges across all levels, including individuals, households, communities, local governments, and the state as a whole.
He also expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its continuous support in improving the well-being of children, women, and other vulnerable groups in Oyo State.
He revealed that the state government has set aside ₦250 million as its counterpart funding for the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN) project, a World Bank initiative launched in March 2020.
He also stated that the state government has contributed ₦100 million as its counterpart funding for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund project.
“In total, the Oyo State Government has committed ₦350 million as a counterpart contribution to the Nutrition Fund to combat all forms of malnutrition,” he said.
He added that the document is designed to serve as a strategic roadmap and aligns with the policies of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
He expressed concern over the high rate of stunted growth among malnourished children, stating that effective implementation of the policy is expected to significantly reduce the percentage.
“The present administration has been committed to driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and fostering wealth creation while ensuring a supportive environment for women and children in the state,” he added.
Babatunde also announced that the state has developed and launched a home-grown 20-year Development Plan, known as Agenda 2040.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to safeguarding children in accordance with the Child Rights Law of 2006, which focuses on their protection, development, survival, and participation.
Speaking at the event, UNICEF representative Mr. Boluwatife Ogunjimi highlighted that the stunting rate among children in Oyo State stands at approximately 34.5 percent.
She further emphasized that malnutrition is a major factor contributing to child mortality, underscoring the critical role of proper nutrition in reducing child deaths.
He assured UNICEF that the state government remains committed to upholding the Child Rights Law of 2006, which focuses on ensuring the protection, development, survival, and active participation of children.
In his remarks, UNICEF representative Mr. Boluwatife Ogunjimi stated that the stunting rate among children in Oyo State is approximately 34.5 percent.
She further noted that malnutrition is a significant contributor to child mortality, emphasizing that proper nutrition is essential in reducing child deaths.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Tunde Ayanleke, also addressed the gathering, assuring UNICEF that the activities outlined in the plan would be effectively implemented to ensure that the human, material, and financial resources invested in its development produce meaningful outcomes.
He acknowledged UNICEF’s contributions to various sectors of the state’s economy, highlighting its broad impact.
