The Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, played a pivotal role in a high-level dialogue addressing the critical issue of malnutrition in Northern Nigeria. The event, held on June 27, 2024, at the Lagos-Osun Hall, Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, was hosted by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health.
Governor Radda, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people of Katsina State, was at the forefront of discussions that highlighted the alarming statistic of over 10 million children suffering from acute malnutrition in Northern Nigeria. The Governor emphasized the urgency of the situation, particularly in Katsina State, and called for immediate action.
In his powerful address, Governor Radda stated, “The magnitude of this crisis demands our immediate and sustained attention. In Katsina, we are witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of malnutrition on our children and families. It is our responsibility to act swiftly and decisively.”
The event brought together key stakeholders, including His Excellency, the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal; His Excellency, the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago; the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State; the Honorable Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; and Mrs. Sughra Mahmood, Director of Nutrition, representing the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. Representatives from international organizations, including Dr. Ritgak Tilley-Gyado of the World Bank and Dr. Simba Tirima of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), were also present.
Governor Radda, leading the charge, joined voices in advocating for a shift in federal allocations to the Northwest and North Central regions, areas currently grappling with increased insecurity and consequently, heightened vulnerability to malnutrition. He committed to paying counterpart funds where necessary and expressed Katsina State’s openness to partnerships and collaborations to address this issue.
“We in Katsina State are ready to lead by example,” Governor Radda affirmed. “We are prepared to allocate resources, implement policies, and work hand-in-hand with development partners to tackle this crisis head-on.”
The dialogue, under Governor Radda’s active participation, emphasized the need for both short-term and long-term strategies. Proposals were made for enhanced food distribution and increased medical support in the immediate term, while also backing long-term solutions such as promoting sustainable agricultural practices and implementing comprehensive nutrition education programs.
As the dialogue concluded, Governor Radda issued a powerful call to action: “Let this be the beginning of a concerted effort to end malnutrition in our region. Katsina State stands ready to collaborate, innovate, and lead in this crucial fight for the future of our children.”
This event marks a significant step in Governor Radda’s ongoing efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Katsina State and Northern Nigeria as a whole.
