……..distributes Tom Brown Baby Cereal to Pregnant Women and Breastfeeding Mothers.
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction today commemorated the 2025 edition of the National Nutrition Week at the Ministry’s Conference Room, Federal Secretariat Complex, Phase 1, Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, welcomed participants and underscored the essence of the week-long observance. He described the National Nutrition Week with the theme “Sustainable Nutrition for a Healthier and Productive Nigeria,” as a vital platform for nationwide sensitization on sustainable nutrition practices, improved food systems, dietary diversity, and healthy living habits.
Mr. Olusanya emphasized that the goals of this year’s celebration include mobilizing support against malnutrition and hunger, combating misinformation on nutrition, and promoting evidence-based solutions to enhance food security, early childhood development, and overall well-being—especially among vulnerable groups.
He further commended the generous donation of cartons of Tom Brown Baby Cereal by Friska Farms Ltd. He appreciated the CEO of the organization for the collaboration and reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to sustain meaningful partnerships that advance nutrition outcomes in Nigeria. He stressed that nutrition is not only a humanitarian concern but also “a powerful and cost-effective tool for poverty reduction,” as it enhances productivity, improves development outcomes for children, and reduces disease burden.
The Permanent Secretary stated that, The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction remains committed to implementing impactful nutrition interventions and fostering partnerships aimed at building a healthier, more resilient, and more productive Nigeria.
In her welcome remarks, the Deputy Director, Nutrition, Dr. Fawekun Oyeyemi, highlighted the significance of the National Nutrition Week in amplifying awareness and interventions targeted at vulnerable populations.
Dr. Oyeyemi noted that the Ministry had already kick-started the week with the distribution of nutrition items through Nutrition International, and emphasized the importance of “charity beginning at home” by ensuring that breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women within the Ministry also benefit from the initiative. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s determination to support vulnerable groups nationwide.
The Chief Executive Officer of Friska Farms Ltd, Mr. Usman Imanah, gave an overview of the company’s mission to provide sustainable, affordable, and high-quality nutritional products for Nigerian families.
Mr. Imanah explained that the Tombrown cereal—produced in rice and maize variants—is formulated from 100% locally sourced ingredients, including Cereals, Legumes, Dates, and Moringa Leaf extract.
He outlined five major features of the product which include Locally sourced raw materials, supporting agricultural value chains; Easy digestion, due to its pre-cooked, extruded formulation; Versatility, allowing use as cereal, swallow, pancake mix, or baking ingredient; Rich nutritional content, combining carbohydrates, protein, and essential micronutrients and Natural production, free of unnecessary additives and suitable for children and adults alike.
Mr. Imanah commended the Ministry for its leadership in humanitarian and poverty-reduction efforts and reaffirmed Friska Farms’ commitment to strengthening partnerships that promote nutrition and wellness across Nigeria.
High point of the event was the presentation of Tom Brown Baby Cereal to breastfeeding mothers in the Ministry, aimed at ensuring equitable access to safe and nutritious food among vulnerable groups.
In his closing remarks, the Assistant Director, Nutrition, appreciated all participants and partners for their contributions to a successful 2025 National Nutrition Week. He encouraged continued collaboration and increased awareness on sustainable nutrition practices that can transform health and productivity outcomes nationwide.
The programme was attended by Directors and staff of the Ministry, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Cross-River State, Nutrition experts, Partners and breastfeeding mothers.
Signed
Iliya Rhoda Ishaku
Director, Information & Public Relations
