Ondo, UNICEF Partner to Combat Rising Malnutrition

The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other international development partners to tackle growing concerns over food insecurity and malnutrition across the state.

The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Laolu Akindolire, made this known on Monday in Akure during events marking the 2026 National Nutrition Week.

Akindolire described malnutrition as a major national health challenge, stressing that it contributes significantly to illness, stunted growth, and preventable deaths among children and adults.

He said the state government, working closely with UNICEF, has intensified nutrition-focused campaigns to improve public awareness and promote healthier eating habits.

He highlighted the recent rollout of the Ondo State Multisectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition (2025–2029), a strategic framework aimed at coordinating nutrition interventions across sectors.

The plan aligns with the state’s development goals and global efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

“Sustainable nutrition focuses on dietary habits that support healthy living while protecting the environment for future generations,” Akindolire said.
“Nutrition is key to building human capital, and malnutrition in all its forms limits opportunities and imposes lifelong sometimes irreversible consequences.”

The commissioner emphasized that the state will continue to work with UNICEF, civil society organisations, and community structures to strengthen nutrition services, improve access to safe food, and support vulnerable households.

Stakeholders at the event called for increased public participation, better funding, and community-driven initiatives to ensure long-term progress in reducing malnutrition rates.