The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has called on religious and traditional leaders to help tackle malnutrition and hunger in Nigeria.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou, made the call at an event organised by the National Council on Nutrition and the World Bank-Assisted Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria Project over the weekend.

Youssoufou stressed the significance of faith-based groups in the national agenda for improving nutrition and human capital development in Nigeria, noting that nutrition goes beyond mere sustenance.

“It is about nurturing the body, mind, and spirit,” she said.

She further noted that adequate nutrition forms the cornerstone of human capital development.

Youssoufou painted a picture of the situation in Nigeria, where malnutrition significantly hampers the nation’s progress, saying children are particularly vulnerable, suffering from stunted growth, cognitive impairments, and increased susceptibility to diseases due to inadequate nutrition.

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She stressed that malnutrition’s consequences extend beyond physical health to affect educational achievements, economic productivity, and overall well-being.

“Urgent and concerted action from all sectors of society is imperative to address this crisis,” the ADF boss said.

Youssoufou highlighted the unique position of religious leaders, with their grassroots reach and influence, in driving positive change in nutrition.

She said their teachings on compassion, justice, and stewardship can inspire individuals to prioritize good nutrition, support vulnerable populations, and advocate for policies promoting food security.

The host of the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed the role of religious and traditional leaders in improving nutrition within their communities.

“Your influence is indispensable. We believe that, regardless of the quality of ideas we bring to the table, our efforts will fall short without your participation and endorsement,” he said.

The Vice President stressed that Nigeria’s future readiness hinges not just on food abundance but on the nourishing quality of its food supply.

“We must proclaim to the world that our commitment to producing food of unparalleled richness is not rhetoric,” Shettima said, noting that “this gathering is a solemn pledge to safeguard our well-being and preserve the legacy of generations yet to come.”

The Star