AKHA Launches Committee On Nutrition And Food Security To Fight  Malnutrition

UYO
A Committee on Nutrition and Food Security has been inaugurated by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA).
Inaugurating the committee recently at the  Conference  Hall of the Assembly  Complex  Udo Udoma  Avenue, Uyo , the  chairman of the committee and  member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, Mr. Moses Essien, in his inaugural speech  expressed  gratitude to the speaker, Elder Udeme Otong, for finding  him and other members of the committee fit for the assignment.
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 also 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.
The committee will as well 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 collaborate with international organisations, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Action Against Hunger (AAH) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Essien who is also the chairman, House Committee on Health, noted that the National Demographic and Health Survey report of 2018 reveals alarming statistics on malnutrition in Nigeria, with 37 per cent of children stunted and 19 per cent 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  are:  Dr. Itorobong  Etim , member for Uruan;  Dr. Nsidibe Akata,  member for Eket;  Mr. Udobia Friday, member for Ibeno/Esit Eket; Mr Uwem Imo Ita, member for Mkpat Enin;  who  expressed their readiness 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.