From Laraba Usman, Gombe
The Gombe State Coalition of the Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) has advocated for the timely release of budgeted funds aimed at tackling malnutrition among the Under 5 children in the state.
Mrs. Comfort Mukollo Gombe State coordinator of the group stated this in Gombe on Monday when they paid a courtesy call on the Commissioner Ministry for Economic Planning Alhaji Salisu Baba-Alkali.
She said the prevalence of malnutrition among the young and most vulnerable population was an issue of concern which needed decisive action.
“Timely release of funds will go a long way in addressing the situation through implementation of targeted intervention and programmes aimed at preventing and managing malnutrition cases effectively,” she explained.
She further said the commissioner’s prompt attention and commitment to the issue of malnutrition will impact the lives of children and contribute to building a healthier and more resilient community in Gombe State.
In his response, Alhaji Salisu Baba-Alkali Commissioner Ministry for Economic Planing assured the group of his commitment, added that he has since presented nutrition policy before the Executive Council meeting.
“ I want to give you the assurance of my support, when we meet next at the Executive Council meeting, I will ensure that we deliberate extensively on the matter.
“We will do everything possible to improve on the statistics for the benefits of the younger generation and future leaders,” he said.