FG RAISES ALARM OVER $1.5 BILLION ANNUAL LOSS TO MALNUTRITION, PLEDGE ACTION
The Federal Government has sounded the alarm over Nigeria’s worsening malnutrition crisis, which costs the nation an estimated $1.5 billion annually in lost productivity and economic potential. Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, revealed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday, August 23, 2025. He described malnutrition as both a health and economic emergency, calling for immediate intervention to reverse the troubling trend.
Speaking at the Nutrition Society of Nigeria’s conference, Bagudu highlighted the devastating impact of micronutrient deficiencies on millions of Nigerians, particularly children under five. He noted that Nigeria ranks second globally in malnutrition, with 40% of children stunted and 8% suffering from wasting, according to the 2023-2024 National Demographic and Health Survey. “Malnutrition is not just a health issue; it’s an economic burden that stifles development. We are prioritizing nutrition in our National Development Plan to reverse this trend,” Bagudu stated.
The economic toll is staggering, with stunted adults earning 20% less than their peers, perpetuating poverty cycles and reducing workforce productivity. Healthcare costs are also significantly higher due to malnutrition-related illnesses, further straining the country’s resources.
In response, the government has launched the National Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition and the N-774 Initiative, which focuses on grassroots-level interventions. The N-774 Initiative, endorsed by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, aims to strengthen local nutrition programs by increasing budgetary allocations and creating nutrition departments across ministries. Bagudu also urged private sector collaboration to enhance food fortification and promote dietary diversity.
However, stakeholders have pointed out persistent gaps in policy implementation and funding as major hurdles. Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) criticized the reliance on donor support and poor coordination of efforts. “While the government’s plans are commendable, poor coordination and reliance on donor support limit impact,” said Beatrice Eluaka, Executive Secretary of CS-SUNN.
The Federal Government’s renewed focus on nutrition, alongside calls for innovation and collaboration, signals a decisive effort to tackle the malnutrition crisis. As the country battles this challenge, stakeholders are urging sustained action to ensure long-term impact and development.
