LEGISLATURE

A'IBOM ASSEMBLY LAUNCHES COMMITTEE ON NUTRITION AND FOOD SECURITY TO FIGHT MALNUTRITION


By Julius Nsikak

Committee chairman, Moses Essien

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has inaugurated a committee on Nutrition and Food Security, chaired by Hon. Moses Essien, member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency. 


The inauguration ceremony took place recently at the Conference Hall of the Assembly in Uyo.

Members of committee


In his inaugural address, Hon. Essien expressed his gratitude to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, for selecting them as members of the committee. 


He emphasised that the committee's primary responsibility is to liaise with relevant government agencies to ensure food availability in Akwa Ibom State, thereby combating malnutrition, particularly among children.


The committee's mandate includes monitoring food availability across the state, addressing malnutrition and hunger, supporting agriculture, promoting agricultural practices, and enhancing the livelihood of farmers in rural communities. 


They will also engage with government agencies, civil society organisations, private sector entities, and international partners to leverage resources and expertise in addressing food security in the state.


To ensure that their policies align with the federal government's efforts to strengthen food security, the committee will oversight various ministries, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, and Ministry of Education.


They will also collaborate with international organisations, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Action Against Hunger (AAH), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).


Hon. Essien noted that the National Demographic and Health Survey report of 2018 revealed alarming statistics on malnutrition in Nigeria, with 37% of children stunted and 19% severely stunted.


He emphasised that the committee is committed to reducing malnutrition in the state and ensuring that children have access to nutritious food.


Other members of the committee, including Hon. (Dr.) Itobong Etim (Uruan), Hon. Nsidibe Akata (Eket), Hon. Udobia Friday (Ibeno/Esit Eket), and Hon. Uwem Imo Ita, pledged to work tirelessly to achieve the committee's mandate.


The inauguration of the committee on Nutrition and Food Security is a significant step towards addressing the pressing issue of malnutrition in Akwa Ibom State. 


However, with this committee's commitment and collaboration with relevant stakeholders, positive impacts will be done on the lives of children and families in the state.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

SECURITY

BUSINESS

EDUCATION